In a child abuse case that has spanned nearly three years, the prosecution has concluded its case, but the legal battle continues for a married couple accused of severely beating their 15-year-old son.
The lead investigator wrapped up her testimony in court, marking the end of that phase. However, the defendant’s lawyer, Saska Diamond, has indicated her intention to submit a ‘no case’ plea.
The alleged incident took place on July 28, 2020, in Potters.
The trial, which commenced in October 2021 after a long wait, featured testimony from the child, who revealed that he endured 65 “strokes” from his father on one hand.
His stepmother kept a record of punishments, which were then administered by his father for alleged wrongdoings.
Usually, he received 15 to 20 lashes for serious offenses, but on one occasion, he was subjected to 65 blows for various acts committed while his father was away.
The child disclosed that he was punished for stealing a donkey, lying, and failing to prevent his brother from taking a bucket they used to hold cane before selling it.
Several witnesses, including a local resident and a neighbor who reported the matter to the police, claimed to have observed bruises on the child.
The lead investigator began providing testimony months ago and underwent cross-examination recently. During her testimony, she stated that she did not see any bruises on the complainant when she assumed the case a few days later.
She expressed confidence that photographs of the injuries were taken but was uncertain about their whereabouts.
Chief Magistrate Joanne Walsh will make a ruling on the ‘no case’ submission on June 29.
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