The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has successfully secured a 20-year prison sentence against a man convicted of defiling a minor in Kericho County.
On Monday, March 9, the ODPP confirmed that Victor Kiplangat Cheruiyot was found guilty of committing sexual offences against a 13-year-old girl in July 2021 at Chebiribei village, Belgut Sub-county. Senior Principal Magistrate Hon. Nyakundi handed down the sentence following a prosecution led by Anthony Karanja.
How the Crime Occurred
The accused lured the minor to his home with false promises, including a gift of a dress. The victim became pregnant but initially concealed the identity of the perpetrator. She later gave birth and returned to school. In 2025, the accused allegedly began harassing the victim and assaulted her brother when he intervened, compounding the trauma.
The victim eventually revealed the abuse to her parents, triggering a police investigation. Subsequent DNA analysis confirmed that the accused was the biological father of the child.
Court Emphasizes Severity
The court stressed the seriousness of the offence and its long-term psychological and physical impact on the minor. Hon. Nyakundi highlighted the grave trauma caused to the child.
Earlier, a man in Kajiado County received a life sentence for defiling a minor, demonstrating courts’ commitment to harsh penalties for sexual offences against children.
The ODPP noted that these prosecutions reflect a strong commitment to child protection. In the Kajiado case, prosecution led by Linda Nzioka relied on five credible witnesses, proving the offences beyond doubt. These convictions underscore the DPP’s pledge to hold perpetrators of sexual violence fully accountable and safeguard children across the country.
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