A 65-year-old New Amsterdam man is now before a 12-member jury over allegations that he sexually assaulted a girl between the ages of 10 and 11.
Neil Fredericks of Philadelphia Street, New Amsterdam, appeared before Justice Peter Hugh at the Berbice High Court on Monday and denied the two charges brought against him.
Fredericks is accused of engaging in sexual activity with the child by touching her vagina between March 1, 2020, and October 31, 2021.
He is also charged with rape of a child, arising from allegations that he sexually penetrated the girl during the same period.
Following his not guilty pleas, a 12-member jury was empanelled to hear the evidence and determine whether the prosecution has proven the charges.
State Prosecutor Marisa Edwards told the court that 14 witnesses are expected to testify for the prosecution. The witnesses include five police officers and a doctor.
Attorney-at-law Charlyn Artiga is representing Fredericks.
The trial began on Monday after the jury was empanelled.
