Pastor sentenced to 40 years in jail for defiling Grade 3 girl

A 50-year-old pastor has been sentenced to 40 years in jail for defiling a Grade Three pupil.

Philip Esinyen was on September 8, 2022 charged with defilement contrary to section 8(2) of the sexual offense Act no 3 of 2006 after he allegedly defiled the 11-year-old girl in August of the same year.

The prosecution said that the girl was on her way from Korinyang primary school in Katilu Ward in Turkana when she met the pastor who requested for her help to sweep his house.

A Lodwar court heard that the girl obliged but when they entered the house, the pastor locked the door behind him, undressed and defiled her. During the ordeal, the girl tried to scream but he gagged her.

A medical report revealed the girl had a broken hymen, foul discharge, difficulty walking and pain in the abdomen.

The accused opted to remain silence in his defense.

Principal Magistrate Nerolyne Idagwa said that the evidence provided by the prosecution and the fact that the girl positively identified the accused proved his guilt.

"From the foregoing, I have no doubt that the charge has been proved against the accused beyond reasonable doubt. He is guilty as charged," Ms Idagwa said in her ruling on July 25.

In his mitigation, the pastor denied the offence saying that he is an orphan, has children and is also taking care of his siblings' children.

"Mitigation noted but due to the seriousness of the offence, accused is sentenced to 40 years imprisonment," Ms Idagwa ruled.