Teen Released on Bail After Controversial 15-year Sentence

Teen Released on Bail After Controversial 15-year Sentence

Plumtree, Zimbabwe — In a dramatic turn of events, a 13-year-old boy from Plumtree, who had been sentenced to 15 years in prison for aggravated indecent assault, was released on bail yesterday.

The boy, whose identity remains confidential due to his age, was granted bail pending review by Regional Magistrate Lungile Ncube in Plumtree. His lawyer, Stanley Chinyanganya, confirmed the development, stating, “We are coming from Bulawayo Prison, and the boy is now with his mother and has gone home.”

The child's mother expressed deep concern for her son's well-being. “He is not okay; he is seriously traumatized,” she revealed. “When we took him yesterday, he cried throughout. He doesn't want anything, and when relatives try to speak to him on the phone, he cries.”

Teen Released on Bail After Controversial 15-year Sentence

The emotional toll on the boy has been evident. He even pleaded for the clothes he was wearing to be burned. Fearing that her son may be mentally disturbed, the mother plans to seek professional help. During a family day at the prison, the boy's aunt noticed his distress and discussed it with a Minister who was present.

According to the pre-sentencing inquiry, the minor's actions stemmed from exposure to inappropriate material (pornography) on a peer's phone. Misguided by the notion that people were “playing,” he attempted to replicate what he had seen on a seven-year-old, leading to his arrest and subsequent sentencing.

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In passing judgment, the Magistrate emphasized that the penalty provision for aggravated indecent assault carries a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years if committed in aggravating circumstances. Juveniles, unfortunately, fall into the same category. The victim's age played a crucial role in the severity of the sentence.