Bahraini Man Acquitted of Assaulting Domestic Worker After Appeals Court Casts Doubt on Accusation

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

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A Bahraini man has been acquitted of assaulting a domestic worker following an appeal hearing in the High Appeals Court.

The court overturned a previous three-year prison sentence, citing inconsistencies in the complainant's testimony.

The defendant's lawyer, Dina Al Qamish, argued that the complainant's statements were contradictory.

She presented evidence suggesting the domestic worker, who was employed on an hourly basis, had initiated contact with the defendant and then attempted to extort him for financial gain.

The initial trial found the defendant guilty of sexual assault without consent, based on the domestic worker's accusations.

However, Al Qamish successfully argued several points on appeal.

She highlighted the implausibility of the complainant's account, particularly in light of text messages showing the complainant had arranged to meet the defendant and requested personal items, suggesting consent.

The complainant attempted to justify these messages by claiming she was only trying to buy time.

Al Qamish further pointed out inconsistencies in the complainant’s claims that she was unable to contact the police or friends for help because of a lack of phone signal, despite being able to text the defendant while he was on the second floor.

She also noted the complainant's claim that the defendant locked her in, despite her being on the ground floor with several windows providing easy escape.

Al Qamish emphasized that the defendant had gone to shower before the alleged assault, giving the complainant ample opportunity to leave or call for help.

Al Qamish argued that the complainant had initiated contact with the defendant, suggesting a massage and then requesting the use of personal items beforehand. She contended that the text messages clearly indicated the complainant's consent.

The lawyer also pointed to insufficient evidence, relying solely on the complainant's testimony. She highlighted that forensic medical reports supported the defendant's account, indicating an attempt by the complainant to extort him financially.

Al Qamish noted that the complainant had even stolen the defendant's iPad, leading to a confrontation when he refused her demands.

The High Appeals Court, finding significant doubt in the complainant's account, ultimately acquitted the defendant.