Fisherman Sentenced to Ten Years for Assaulting Four-Year-Old
Kadijatu Barrie Justice Alhaji Momoh Jah Stevens has sentenced fisherman Alhaji Sawaneh to ten years in prison for the sexual assault of a four-year-old child. The ruling was issued during a criminal session at Freetown’s Sexual Offences Court No. 7, located on Siaka Stevens Street.
Sawaneh faced one count of sexual penetration, violating Section 19 of the Sexual Offences Act of 2012, which was later amended by Section 4(a)(ii) of the Sexual Offences Amendment Act of 2019. The court heard that the crime occurred on July 19, 2023, in Freetown, involving a minor under the age of 18.
During the proceedings, Sawaneh pleaded guilty and notably went without legal representation. In a plea for leniency, he urged Justice Stevens to consider both justice and mercy. However, the judge expressed deep concern over the nature of the crime, labeling it “wickedness” to violate such a young child. Justice Stevens emphasized that the victim deserved protection and nurturing, not exploitation.
In his sentencing remarks, Justice Stevens acknowledged Sawaneh’s youth and encouraged him to use his time in prison to acquire valuable skills. He also mandated that upon release, Sawaneh must have no contact with the victim.
