KOCHI: 45-years of rigorous imprisonment to the accused who sexually assaulted a three-and-a half-year-old girl. Udayamperoor native Purushothaman (83) was sentenced to 45-years of rigorous imprisonment and Rs 80,000 as fine by Ernakulam Principal Pocso court. The accused, who was a priest in the temple, did the crime during 2019-2020. The three-and-a-half-year-old girl was raped by giving sugar candy and grapes.

The news of sexual assault came out when a change in the girl’s behaviour was noted. Based on the complaint, the child’s statement was noted and the police arrested Purushothaman. The verdict came out after the accused was found guilty of ten crimes including the Pocso act during the trial. The court observed that the cruelty he had done to the child who was of his granddaughter’s age, was extreme and did not deserve any mercy. The court has also directed to transfer the fine amount collected from the accused to the girl's family.