By Kisean Joseph
Karl Warner, a body modification artist, faces a potentially lengthy prison sentence after being found guilty of seven counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor.
The High Court has set November 5 as the sentencing date for Warner, who could receive up to 10 years imprisonment for each count.
The verdict, delivered by Justice Tunde Bakre following a four-day trial that concluded on October 4, marks the end of a disturbing case that has shocked the local community. Warner, who operated a business in the Craft Market, was found guilty of repeatedly sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl over several months in 2021.
According to evidence presented during the trial, Warner’s criminal behavior began when the victim, seeking information about body piercing services, visited his business premises. This initial encounter set the stage for a series of sexual assaults that spanned from February to May 2021.
The prosecution successfully established a timeline of the offenses, detailing seven separate incidents of unlawful sexual intercourse. The first two assaults occurred on February 24, 2021, followed by two more on March 1. Additional incidents took place on April 1, May 10, and May 13, painting a picture of escalating abuse over time.
One of the most disturbing aspects of the case was the revelation that the teenager would regularly visit Warner’s business, sometimes still wearing her school uniform. This detail underscores the predatory nature of Warner’s actions and the vulnerability of his victim.
The trial, which began on October 1, saw the prosecution present compelling evidence of Warner’s guilt. The jury’s decision to convict on all seven counts reflects the strength of the case against him and the serious nature of his crimes.
This case has raised concerns about the safety of young people in the community, particularly in relation to businesses that may attract teenage customers. It serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and the importance of safeguarding measures to protect minors from sexual predators.