A 29-year-old dad was sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to abusing his son at a house in Kampung Sungai Buaya, Batu 3 Jalan Apas, Tawau.
Berita Harian reported that the single dad was sentenced to 2 years in prison by the Sessions Court after pleading guilty to abusing his 7-year-old son in October last year.
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He hit his son with a belt for playing marbles
Sargalye Salasain, a Filipino man holding an IMM13 refugee document, was charged with abusing his son and causing physical injuries.
According to the case details, the accused got angry at his son for playing marbles in the sand and ended up hitting him with a belt, which resulted in injuries to the child’s body.
The child’s aunt witnessed the incident, managed to record a video, and later filed a police report.
Judge Ahmad Faizadh Yahaya sentenced the accused after he admitted to the charge and was convicted under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001.
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He prevented his son from playing in the sand due to his eczema
Deputy Public Prosecutor Shearil Aizad Murnizam handled the case, while lawyer Chen Wen Jye represented the accused pro bono.
Earlier, Wen Jye asked for a lighter sentence, pointing out that the accused pleaded guilty, which saved the court’s time from a long trial.
The lawyer explained that the accused deeply regrets his actions and clarified that his intention was merely to discipline his son, who has sensitive skin and eczema, to prevent him from playing in the sand.
“This is his first offense, and he fully cooperated with the police during the investigation,” the lawyer said.
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The sentence is effective from the date of arrest
For the offence, he was charged under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a maximum fine of RM50,000, up to 10 years in jail, or both, if convicted.
The accused also has to post a good behaviour bond worth RM2,000 with one local surety for 2 years and complete 120 hours of community service within 12 months after being released from prison.
The court also ordered that the sentence be effective from the date of arrest, which was October 12, 2024.
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Also read: 7yo Boy Tragically Dies After Being Abused by Mom & Stepdad for Repeatedly Asking for RM0.90
