Meita Irianty, Owner Of Daycare In Depok, Sentenced To 1 Year In Prison For Maltreatment Of Toddlers

Meita Irianty (MI), owner of the Wensen daycare in Depok, West Java, has been named a suspect in child abuse (ANTARA)

DEPOK Meita Irianty, a defendant in the case of mistreatment of two toddlers at Daycare Wensen School Indonesia, Cimanggis, Depok, was sentenced to one year in prison. This verdict is lighter than the prosecutor's demand for a sentence of one year and six months.

The decision was read out by the presiding judge, Bambang Setyawan, during an online trial in the Carka room, Depok District Court, on Wednesday, December 11.

The Panel of Judges stated that Meita, who is also the owner of the daycare, was legally and convincingly proven to have committed a criminal act of violence against children. The defendant was not present at the trial for health reasons and was eight months pregnant.

"Declare that the defendant Meita Irianty legally and convincingly committed a criminal act of violence against children," said Bambang in his decision.

In addition to the prison sentence, Meita is also required to pay restitution to two victims with a total of Rp. 300 million.

Responding to the decision, the defendant's attorney, Ahmad Suardi, stated that his party was still considering the next legal steps.

"We have not been able to determine whether or not to agree with the judge's decision. There are seven days to discuss with the defendant's family," Ahmad explained.

This case emerged after the recording of the abuse of two toddlers at the Wensen School Indonesia Daycare went viral on social media. This action drew widespread criticism from the public, which urged that the perpetrators be given strict punishment.

Currently, the defendant has time to decide whether to accept the verdict or file an appeal.