By Elizabeth Kamara
Joseph Sao Amara, a 25-year-old, appeared before the Sexual Offences Court No.7 located on Siaka Stevens Street in Freetown, facing one count of sexual penetration contrary to Section 19 of the Sexual Offences Act 2012 (Act No. 12 of 2012), as amended by Section 4(a)(ii) of the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2019 (Act No. 8 of 2019).
According to the prosecution, the alleged incident occurred on December 26, 2023, in Freetown, where Amara is accused of engaging in sexual penetration with a girl under the age of 18.
Upon reading and explaining the charge to the accused, he pleaded not guilty. It was noted that he was not represented by legal counsel during the court proceedings.
Justice Stevens denied bail and ordered that Amara be remanded at the Male Correctional Centre in Freetown. The matter has been adjourned to April 30, 2025.
