Man accused of sexual assault given one month to prepare

A MAN charged with sexual offence against a relative was given a month to prepare his submissions on evidence.
The 20-year-old Hela man facing various sex-related charges allegedly committed against his 14-year-old half-brother appeared before Magistrate Tracy Ganaii in the Waigani Committal Court from custody and had his case adjourned to April 27.
Prosecutor Snr Const Peter Samghy said since the court had a backlog of cases for April, a month would be ample time for the defendant to prepare submissions.
Defence lawyer Carolyn Bomai had no objections. The accused will remain in custody at Bomana.
He was charged with persistent sexual abuse, aggravated rape, sexual penetration and deprivation of liberty.
The alleged offences happened at the Taurama Barracks in Port Moresby between last May 6 and Oct 10.
Their father, a soldier, was away on duty travel in Tari, Hela, when the alleged offences occurred.
The younger son alleged that his half-brother had threatened him on many occasions and had sex with him on several occasions.