Saturday, 12th July 2008

Policeman accused of defiling partner's daughter

A policeman was yesterday charged with defiling his partner's 13-year-old daughter earlier this week.

The 49-year-old man from Cospicua, whose name is not being published to protect the identity of the alleged victim, was accused of defiling the girl in Xgħajra on Wednesday and in the past months.

The policeman was also accused of holding the girl against her will, violently and indecently assaulting her and committing a crime he was in duty bound to prevent. He pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Edwina Grima upheld his request for bail against a deposit of €1,000 and a personal guarantee of €1,000. He was also placed under house arrest.

Police Inspectors Louise Calleja and Fabian Fleri prosecuted.

Joseph Giglio and Stephen Tonna Lowell were defence counsel.