A 19-year-old youth who admitted having a sexual relationship with a girl, 11, was yesterday put on probation for three years.

The teenager will also be receiving psychological help.

“You have to understand that what you did was not right and this will be addressed by giving you the help you need,” Magistrate Josette Demicoli told him as he stood, motionless, in the dock surrounded by relatives who filled the court room.

The magistrate also warned him not to contact the minor in any way during the probation period. This, she said, meant no texting, no messages on Facebook or any other form of contact.

“If she tries to contact you, do not reply,” the magistrate told the teenager, warning him he could end up behind bars if he defaulted.

The teenager admitted to defiling and having sexual relations with the 11-year-old, who was his girlfriend.

The magistrate banned publication of the teenager’s name to protect the identity of the victim.

Police Inspector Sylvana Briffa prosecuted.

Lawyer Mark Vassallo assisted the accused.

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