The Tribune

By PAVEL BAILEY

Tribune Staff Reporter

pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A HAITIAN national was sentenced to one year in prison yesterday after admitting to sexually assaulting his 16-year-old neighbour on Milton Street last week.

Eligene Alcika, 58, was arraigned before Assistant Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vogt-Evans on a charge of indecent assault.

Prosecutors said the teen was walking home after buying a snack around 5pm on April 9 when Alcika allegedly pulled her into his house, placed her on his lap, kissed her neck and cheeks, and groped her breasts and genitals.

The girl pushed him away and ran home to tell her mother, who reported the incident to police.

During a police interview, Alcika admitted to placing the girl on his lap and trying to kiss her. In court, with the assistance of a Creole translator, he pleaded guilty and accepted the facts presented by prosecutors.

He told the court he was not in his right frame of mind then and said he is the father of four daughters, aged 12 to 24. He also claimed his work permit was being processed and had a receipt for it at home.

Although Magistrate Vogt-Evans noted Alcika’s early plea and lack of prior offences, she described his actions as “inappropriate” and said the assault warranted a custodial sentence, as it could have caused lasting trauma to the victim.

She emphasised the public’s responsibility to protect children and preserve the sanctity of their communities.

Alcika was sentenced to one year at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services. Upon completing his sentence, he will be handed over to the Department of Immigration.

Several female relatives were present for his sentencing. Assistant Superintendent of Police S Coakley served as the prosecutor.