Businessman admits sending indecent material to 14-year-old girl

A 21-year-old businessman admitted in court to sending indecent photos and videos to a 14-year-old girl and inviting her to engage in sexual activities.

The court heard that the accused had been chatting with the girl and, during the course of those exchanges, sent her indecent material.

Accompanied by her father, she went to the Qawra police station to file a report. Police then tracked down the accused, arrested him at his home and brought him to court, where he admitted the charges.

The defence informed the court that the accused had started attending sessions with a psychotherapist in an effort to address issues linked to the case. They also requested the preparation of a pre-sentencing report before punishment is handed down.

A request for bail was made and upheld by the court. Among other conditions, the accused must sign the bail book twice a week, observe a curfew between 11pm and 6am and steer clear of the Buġibba area where the complainant resides. The court also ordered a publication ban on the accused's identity.

The court also imposed a €2,000 deposit and an €8,000 personal guarantee.

Inspectors Marshall Mallia and Warren Galea prosecuted, assisted by lawyer Cynthia Tomasuolo.

Lawyers Arthur Azzopardi and Jacob Magri appeared for the accused.