A Catholic priest  in Trans Nzoia has been jailed for five years after he was found guilty of attempting to defile an altar girl.

 Fr Benard Magina Masinde of Kipsaina Catholic Church in Cherangany sub-county was accused that on September 15, 2018, he  intentionally attempted to defile the 11-year-old at Kipsaina trading centre.

“The prosecution has proved its case against the accused person beyond any reasonable doubt,” ruled Senior Resident Magistrate Dancan Mtai. 

The 45-year-old  cleric was, however, acquitted of an alternative charge of committing an indecent act with the minor. 

Initially, when he was produced in court, the accused had pleaded not guilty to the charges.