A pastor from Cartago is set to face a second trial for alleged sexual crimes involving a young girl. Previously sentenced to 14 years in prison but later acquitted, the second case concerns events from 2009 and 2010, when the victim was only five years old.
- Preliminary Hearing and Trial A preliminary hearing took place two weeks ago, according to Angie Arce, the victim’s lawyer. The judge determined that there was sufficient probability and evidence to proceed with a trial, scheduled for later this year.
- Background of the Case The defendant was close to the girl and her family, who were members of the Centro de Avivamiento de Pacayas church. The alleged incidents occurred in 2009 and 2010 when the minor was alone with the defendant.
- Alleged Incidents A. December 2009 Incident In December 2009, the girl and the defendant were alone in her living room, where he was showing her a scooter. The victim reported that he touched her genitals with a clear sexual intent.
B. 2010 Incident In 2010, the girl was outside the defendant’s house looking at a horse when the man allegedly attempted to put his hand inside her clothes. The girl managed to move away from him.
- Defendant’s Claims and Witnesses The defendant maintains his innocence and claims to have four witnesses who can testify on his behalf. Questions have been raised about the credibility of these witnesses and their ability to provide relevant testimony given they were not present during the alleged incidents.
The upcoming trial for the Cartago pastor, accused of sexual crimes against a minor, highlights the importance of pursuing justice for victims and ensuring that such cases are thoroughly investigated. As the trial unfolds, it will be crucial for the court to carefully examine the evidence and testimonies presented by both sides.
