Youth accused of defiling two girls

A 20-year-old man was yesterday charged with defiling two teenage girls, one of whom has a mental health problem.

Amadeo Pace, of Floriana, pleaded not guilty to defiling the two girls, aged 13 and 14, and to the violent indecent assault of the 14-year old on Wednesday and Thursday.

He however admitted to driving a car without a licence and insurance cover and failing to inform authorities when he changed the colour of his car. Magistrate Lawrence Quintano heard how Mr Pace picked up the girls from school and took them in a car near a Zabbar housing estate where he allegedly committed the crime in a public place.

Mr Pace was denied bail.

Police Inspectors Anthony Portelli and Louise Vella prosecuted.

Lawyers Lesley Cuschieri and Daniela Mangion represented Mr Pace.