Stefan Vassallo, 23, was charged in court today with participating in sexual acts with his 15-year-old girlfriend. He pleaded not guilty.

Lawyer Franco Debono told Magistrate Giovanni Grixti, that the girl's parents knew of the relationship. Malta, he said,  was the only country in the world where the age of consent was still 18.

The inspector said that the accused had been warned  that he was headed for problems.

He was previously convicted for handling stolen property and trafficking cannabis where he received a year jail term which he appealed.

Bail was granted against a deposit of €1,000 and a personal guarantee of €1,500.

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