A man cleared by the courts of defiling children has filed a judicial letter against the children’s mother, who had “poisoned” the children’s minds when she instructed them to falsely claim he had abused them.

Martin Vassallo, 35, of Senglea, filed the letter claiming damages of around €60,000 from the mother, who is not being named to protect her children.

The damages are being claimed for losing his job as well as the opportunity to get another one or the facility or earn an income, leading to him having a lower standard of living.

Mr Vassallo was acquitted of defiling the children, a boy and girl both under 12, holding them against their will and threatening all three of them five years ago.

The letter was signed by lawyer Roberto Montalto.