By Dorothy Musyoka
A Kabarnet Law Court has sentenced Kimosop Rutto to 20 years in prison after finding him guilty of defiling a 12-year-old girl, in violation of Section 8(1) as read with Section 8(3) of the Sexual Offences Act, 2006.
According to the Director of the Public Prosecutions, the heinous act occurred on June 1, 2023, at Koibour Village, Koitilion Sub-location, Ewalel Soi Location, in Baringo South Sub-county.
The court also noted an alternative charge of committing an indecent act with a child, contrary to Section 11(1) of the same Act.
“The offences occurred on June 1, 2023, at Koibour Village, Koitilion Sub-location, Ewalel soi Location, in Baringo South Sub-county, within Baringo County.The court determined that the convict Kimosop Rutto intentionally and unlawfully committed the heinous act against a 12 year-old girl,” noted the ODPP.
The case, prosecuted by Ms. Rebecca Bartilol, presented five witnesses who provided consistent and credible testimonies that left no doubt about the accused’s guilt, leading to his conviction.
“The prosecution, led by Ms. Rebecca Bartilol, presented five witnesses whose consistent and credible testimonies proved the case beyond reasonable doubt, culminating in the conviction,” added the ODPP.
While delivering the sentence, Senior Principal Magistrate Edwin Mulochi emphasized the seriousness of the offence and its long-term impact on the victim.
In addition, Magistrate Mulochi highlighted the need for stringent penalties to deter such crimes, citing Article 53(1)(d) of the Constitution, which obligates the protection of children from abuse.