Pensioner freed of child rape charges
(Kaieteur News) – Two days after his trial for alleged sexual offences against a child began, 65-year-old Neil Fredericks was acquitted on Thursday at the Berbice High Court.
The pensioner, of Philadelphia Street, New Amsterdam, Berbice, was found not guilty when a 12-member jury returned its verdict in the case, presided over by Justice Peter Hugh.
Fredericks was indicted on two counts of child-related sexual offences.
Acquitted, Neil Fredericks
On the first count, sexual activity with a child under 16, contrary to Section 11(B) of the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03, it was alleged that between 1st March, 2020, and 31st October, 2021, in Berbice, Fredericks engaged in sexual activity with a child aged 10 to 11.
On the second count, rape of a child under 16, contrary to Section 10(B) of the same Act, it was alleged that, during the same period and in the same location, he sexually penetrated the child.
Fredericks pleaded not guilty when the trial commenced on Monday. He was represented by attorney Charlyn Artiga, while prosecutor Marisa Edwards appeared on behalf of the State.
The trial resumed on Thursday, when the jury retired to deliberate. The prosecution had arranged for 14 witnesses to testify.
The jury forewoman subsequently delivered the verdict, declaring Fredericks not guilty on both counts. Upon hearing the decision, he appeared elated.
Justice Hugh then formally discharged the jury and informed an emotional Fredericks that he was a free man.
Outside the courtroom, Fredericks spoke to reporters and expressed relief that the trial had ended, particularly because he had been acquitted of both charges.
He said the case had damaged his reputation and affected his livelihood as a heavy-duty vehicle operator.
“I feel so good. Seeing that people you love and that you try to help out in this life try to sink you. It affected me a great lot. Work, everything. I would like to say thank the Lord,” he said.
Maintaining that he was well known throughout the town and that many people could vouch for his character, Fredericks thanked God and his attorney before leaving the court compound.
Meanwhile, the child’s family told Kaieteur News that although the matter had concluded at the Berbice High Court, they intended to pursue further legal action.
Source: Kaieteur News
