In the Sessions Court here today, a 39-year-old music teacher for elementary schools filed a claim for trial on two counts of sexually abusing a 10-year-old pupil.
The accused, Mohamad Nazmi Mohamed Nazri, entered a not guilty plea when Justice Ainul Shahrin Mohamad read the allegations.
Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offenses Against Children Act 2017 served as the basis for both charges.
If found guilty, the accused might face up to 20 years in prison and caning under Section 14(a). Additionally, under Section 295(1A) of the Criminal Procedure Code, the accused could be under police observation for up to three years.
In two instances at the school’s music room in June and July, Mohamad Nazmi was charged with inappropriately touching the victim, according to the charge sheet.
Qurratuaini Khalifah, the deputy public prosecutor, asked that the accused not be granted bail during the proceedings in order to stop him from bothering the victim.
Syahrul Nizam Mohd Rabi, the accused’s attorney, requested court bail, citing the client’s anemia and cardiac condition.
“Throughout the investigation, my client has never disturbed the victim nor the witness and he is willing to accept any additional condition such as reporting to the police station until the end of the proceeding.
“Furthermore, I request the bail to be set for a reasonable amount as my client is a public servant and has a wife and three children aged three to nine,” he said.
Justice Ainul Shahrin set bail at RM5,000 with one surety and fixed December 20 for case management.
“My client showed a dedication to collaboration by keeping a polite distance from the victim and the witness throughout the investigation. He is willing to abide with any further requirements, such as continuing to regularly report to the police station during the legal process.
“Moreover, I appeal for a reasonable bail amount, considering my client’s status as a public servant with familial responsibilities, supporting a wife and three children aged three to nine,” said the defense attorney.
Judge Ainul Shahrin set a December 20 case management date and granted RM5,000 bail with a single surety. The judge’s ruling ensures that the accused is treated fairly throughout the current judicial processes by striking a balance between the demands of the legal system and his or her personal circumstances.
