A man has admitted in court to sexually harassing a colleague at the government department where they both worked.

Carmelo Desira, 61, from Qormi, was jailed for a year and suspended for two after pleading guilty to violently and indecently assaulting the woman – who was vulnerable due to mental health reasons.

He also admitted to charges of sexual harassment, offending public morals and harassing her on several occasions. The incidents took place last February as their workplace.

The court heard that the two, both married, started to flirt and this developed into comments and actions of a sexual nature by both.

However, the woman asked him to stop when his sexual advances became more frequent and started to get out of hand. But Mr Desira persisted and his behaviour degenerated into sexual harassment and ultimately violent assault.

Mr Desira apologised for his actions before Magistrate Audrey Demicoli and admitted the charges. He was jailed for a year suspended for two, and an 18-month protection order was issued in favour of the woman.

Police Inspector Joseph Busuttil prosecuted; lawyers Veronique Dalli and Dean Hili appeared for the man.