Man accused of sexual offence goes free after matter is withdrawn, but warned to stay away from complainant

A man can count himself lucky after a charge of indecent assault was
dismissed against him on the instructions of the acting Director of
Public Prosecutions (DPP).
 
Reports say the matter came up for committal proceedings this
week before acting Chief Magistrate Dexter Wason in the St. John’s
Magistrates’ Court.
 
However, the prosecution informed the court that it was no longer
proceeding with the matter, based on the directives of the DPP.
 
As a result, acting Chief Magistrate Wason dismissed the case
against the man – but not before sternly warning him not to
interfere with the victim, as he was also instructed by the DPP.
 
While no reasons were given for the dismissal, it is likely that the
victim does not wish to pursue the matter anymore, or there was
not sufficient evidence to continue with the process.
 
This offence reportedly occurred on July 28, 2023.
 
Because of the nature of the case, the names of the victim and the
accused man have to be withheld, especially since the man has not
been convicted of the offence.
 
This is in keeping with the rules under the Sexual Offences Act.