HAGATNA, Guam (AP) - A Guam high school teacher is accused of raping an 11-year-old girl more than six years ago.
The alleged victim, now 17, told police that Francis Jude Taitano got drunk and raped her in 2007 as she cried.
Taitano is charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct and two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct.
“The offense takes place almost seven years ago, and there is no allegations that this was an ongoing event,” defense attorney Mark Kondas said.
Kondas said the girl has visited Taitano’s family many times, raising questions about her credibility.
Assistant Attorney General Jordan Leidel said it’s not known whether the girl visited Taitano of her own volition or what her feelings about visiting were, the Pacific Daily News reported Friday (https://ow.ly/sVfbu ).
Kondas said the George Washington High School teacher is a lifelong Guam resident. He asked that his client be released without putting up any money.
But Taitano was ordered to remain jailed on $75,000 cash bail during a court hearing, where he appeared via video conference at the Judiciary of Guam Northern Satellite.
Department of Education Deputy Superintendent Robb Malay said the agency is aware of the allegations and will determine if any action will be taken.
__
Information from: Pacific Daily News: https://www.guampdn.com
Please read our comment policy before commenting.