 |
| The neighborhood in Mui Wo where the rape was allegedly committed (Google Maps photo) |
A Filipino charged with the rape of his family’s domestic helper, was granted bail on his third request at Shatin Court on Friday (June 7), after his lawyer brought up new developments that could affect the case.
Alden John Apayat, 41 years old, is accused of raping the woman
identified only as X, last April 10 at their house on Mui Wo Rural Committee
Road, Mui Wo, Lantau Island.
Apayat, who had unsuccessfully applied for bail in the two previous
hearings, was charged under Section 118(1) of the Crimes Ordinance which prescribes
a maximum penalty of life in prison for rape.
 |
| PINDUTIN DITO |
Magistrate David Chum granted the appeal of Apayat’s lawyer to
set him free temporarily because he has moved out of the family house, is divorcing
his wife, and is now living with his girlfriend.
Magistrate Chum set a cash bail of $50,000 and surety of
$15,000 on the condition that he will surrender his Philippine passport, and
will not contact any of the prosecution witnesses and the victim.
He also required him to live in the address given to the
court, notify the police at least 24 hours before moving to another address,
and report every Sunday to the Mui Wo Police.
 |
| TAWAG NA! |
Magistrate Chum also called the person who provided the
security -- Apayat’s girlfriend -- and made it clear to her that she was
required to ensure that he would attend all hearings, that she would accompany
him to all hearings, and she would report to police if there is any indication he
would not show up in court.
If any of these terms are violated, he told her, the bail
will be canceled and Apayat will be returned to jail.
The next hearing is scheduled for August 12.
 |
