(CMR) DJ Renato Renaldo Harris was sentenced this morning, 15 February, to 16 and a half years in prison on two counts of rape. The sentences, 16.5 years on each count, will run concurrently, and the time already served will be taken into consideration.
Harris, who continues to deny the 2018 rapes, was found guilty last year. The prosecution's case was that the defendant was guilty of the two counts of rape that led to his victim having to obtain an abortion, while the defense argument was “she wanted it.”
In handing down the sentence on Wednesday, Acting Justice Marlene Carter said the sentence must both punish the offender and deter others from committing similar offenses.
Acting Justice Marlene Carter imposed sexual harm prevention order for four years after Harris is released from prison. He is also prohibited from contacting the complainant by any means and
should inform a senior RCIPS officer of his address and telephone number within 48 hours of his release from prison.
He has also been ordered to inform an RCIPS senior officer, rank of sergeant and above, of travel to the sister Islands, three days before travel. Harris must also inform the police of any changes in his identification and the reasons for these changes.
The 40-year-old was born and grew up in Jamaica. He migrated to the Cayman Islands in 2004 and worked as a DJ from 2005 to 2019.
The court heard that he had a previous conviction of cruelty to a child and assault causing grievous body arm. He is considered at high risk of sexual reoffending.
A social inquiry report also indicated that Harris showed no remorse; instead, he continued to maintain he was the victim.
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