Puttur: In a long-pending case dating back to 2017, the Puttur 5th Additional District and Sessions Court, also functioning as the Special POCSO Court, has delivered a verdict against a man found guilty of exploiting a minor girl in Badagannur village, Puttur taluk.
The accused, Peeresh alias Peerappa Sangappa Malothar (35), hailing from Gowdageri Oni in Dindur village, Ron taluk, Gadag district, has been sentenced to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment. A fine of ₹35,000 was imposed, and failure to pay will result in an additional 5-year simple imprisonment.
Peeresh, employed at a quarry in Kempukallu at the time, was reported to have taken advantage of the minor by inviting her to his rented residence, leading to repeated misconduct. The incident resulted in severe emotional and physical trauma for the survivor.
Based on a complaint, the Sampya police had registered a case and took the accused into custody. During the proceedings, the court recorded statements from 18 witnesses. After reviewing the evidence, Judge Saritha D passed the judgment.
The District Legal Services Authority has been instructed to grant ₹6 lakh compensation to the survivor as part of the support process.
Earlier, fearing legal consequences, Peeresh had gone into hiding. A warrant was issued, and under the supervision of CI Ravi B S, a team led by SI Jamburaj B Mahajan and SI Sushma G Bhandari traced and arrested him in Dindur.