The High Court’s International Crimes Division in Kampala has acquitted former Bukwo District LC V Chairman Julius Moses Chelimo of aggravated defilement and aggravated child trafficking charges involving a 16-year-old schoolgirl.
In a ruling delivered on Friday, trial judge Duncan Gaswaga found that prosecutors failed to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt. The court ruled that the evidence presented by the State was not strong enough to secure a conviction, leading to Chelimo’s release from the serious allegations.
The prosecution, led by Chief State Attorney Joseph Kyomuhendo, had accused Chelimo of sexually assaulting the minor on October 21, 2022, at his home in Cairo Village, Chepkwatsa Sub-county in Bukwo District.
Court records further indicated that the girl was allegedly taken to Chelimo’s residence by her uncle, Joshua Kwemoi, who was said to have received money in exchange.
With the acquittal, Chelimo walks free, bringing a dramatic end to a case that had drawn public attention since his arrest.
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