By Twink Jones Gadama
A 56-year-old pastor, Mccrystal Charlie, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for defiling a 16-year-old girl in Lilongwe.
The sentence was handed down by Magistrate Bracious Kondowe after Charlie was found guilty of the crime.
According to Lilongwe Police Publicist, Hastings Chigalu, Charlie, who is a pastor at Kadziyo Disciple Church in Lilongwe, had been accused of defiling the minor and making her pregnant. Charlie had denied the charges, but the court found him guilty.
During the trial, Charlie pleaded with the court to exercise leniency, citing that he had children and dependents who relied on him.
He also asked the court to consider his status as a student pursuing a Master’s degree in theology.
However, the court ruled that Charlie’s actions were unacceptable and that he had failed to show remorse for his crime.
The court also noted that Charlie’s education and social status did not justify his actions.
The sentence has been welcomed by many who feel that it sends a strong message against child abuse and defilement.
The case has also highlighted the need for greater protection and support for victims of child abuse in Malawi.
