TAWAU: A 30-year-old sewage worker who previously pleaded guilty to raping a 14-year-old girl has changed his plea to not guilty and opted to stand trial.
Mhd Ali Salleh made the new plea before Sessions Court Judge Ahmad Faizadh Yahaya today. He had initially pleaded guilty to the charge during proceedings on Aug 14.
According to the charge, the accused allegedly committed the offence at a bushy area behind an old building in Batu 4, Jalan Apas, in July.
The charge was filed under Section 375(g) of the Penal Code and carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment and whipping upon conviction under Section 376(1).
The court fixed Oct 22 for pre-trial case management, submission of relevant documents and matters concerning the appointment of legal counsel.
The accused was previously granted RM12,000 bail with two local sureties, subject to additional conditions. However, he was unable to post bail and remains in Tawau Prison pending the next proceedings.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Muhammad Haikal Hazwan Md Yatin appeared for the prosecution.
-MetroHarian
