A former deputy headteacher has been handed a 28-year prison sentence after being found guilty of sexually abusing a 13-year-old student in Kiambu County.
The ruling was delivered by Resident Magistrate Evangelista Kithinji, who said the evidence presented left no room for doubt.
The offences occurred between April and October 2023 at a school in Thika West Sub-County. In court, the victim provided a detailed and consistent testimony, which the magistrate described as credible.
Her account was supported by medical examinations and witness statements, including from the investigating officer and the child’s mother.
The defence argued against the minor’s claims, but the court rejected their challenge, noting that Kamau’s role as a teacher meant he held a position of trust and authority, making any suggestion about the child’s behavior irrelevant.
During mitigation, Kamau recounted fleeing to Machakos after the incidents, contemplating suicide, and later being helped by a good Samaritan to move to Ciakariga in Chuka. He added that he eventually obtained a job as a curriculum coordinator at a private school.
The minor’s family lawyer, Karuga Mbugua, praised the judgment, saying it sends a strong message to those who abuse their positions to harm children. Kamau was convicted under Section 8(3) of the Sexual Offences Act, which provides for long jail terms for defilement of children aged 12 to 15.
