Man accused of defiling girl, 14

A 34-year-old Arab man today pleaded not guilty to having defiled a 14-year-old girl over the past two years and corrupted her.

The court was told that the man was in a relationship with the girl's mother.

Defence lawyer Edward Gatt said there was an ongoing custody battle between the parents of the girl. It was during these proceedings that all of a sudden, these allegations had arisen. "We do not have some monster here trying to get away from the police as is being portrayed by the prosecution."

Police Inspector Jesmond Borg said he believed the girl's statements to the police. He said the accused was constantly changing addresses because he had a pending court case.

Magistrate Anthony Vella remaded the accused in custody.