An HIV-infected man who had sex with another man without informing the latter of the risk of contracting the infection was jailed for 18 months on Wednesday.
The 27-year-old former engineer had pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual activity with the man, now 37, in an apartment in January 2009.
The defendant, who cannot be named as there is a gag order, was diagnosed with HIV in March 2008. Some time in January 2009, while both were at an apartment, they engaged in oral sex with each other.
Before the sexual activity, the defendant had not informed the victim of the risk of contracting HIV infection from him and getting the latter's voluntary agreement to accept that risk. The court heard that the 37-year-old had contracted HIV but the prosecution could not confirm that the defendant had infected him.
Pleading for leniency, the defendant, who is single, said he realised his mistake. He told the court that he was supporting his sick mother who was on medication. He also said he needed to make some money for his future medical expenses.
Another HIV-infected man, aged 48, has also been convicted of engaging in sex with the same male partner. He will return to court next Thursday to be sentenced.
The maximum punishment is two years' jail and a $5,000 fine .
Source: ST Online
No comments:
Post a Comment