CARNAL knowledge accused Patrick Narine, who was conducting his own defence at his trial for having sex with his then seven-year-old stepdaughter, is now represented by counsel.

Yesterday, after the State had already called a number of witnesses, some of whom had been cross-examined by the accused, Attorney-at-law Mr. Roger Yearwood entered appearance for the accused and requested that witnesses who had already testified for the prosecution should be made available for cross-examination by him.

As a consequence, Presiding Judge Mr. James Bovell-Drakes, adjourned the matter to tomorrow.

Lawyers Zamilla Alli and Prithima Kissoon for the Prosecution have called witnesses including the stepdaughter who tearfully testified that her stepfather had criminally assaulted her one night while her mother was away from home.

The State is alleging that the accused had carnal knowledge with the girl between the April 30 and June 1, 2003.

The biological father of the girl, now 14 years of age, testified that after he learnt of his daughter’s dilemma, he visited the school she attended and took her to the Police Station where the matter was reported and arrangements made for her to be medically examined by a doctor.