Former Principal Found Not Guilty of Indecent Assault, Cruelty to Children

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A former principal has been found not guilty of indecent assault and cruelty to children.

Prosecutors alleged that Dr Matheo Smith, then the principal of Achievers Christian Academy, showed a 15-year-old girl a photo of his genitals and touched her bottom.

The girl said she went to Smith’s office on March 18, 2024 after another student told her that Smith wanted to see her.

She alleged that he behaved inappropriately with her while in the office.

But during cross-examination by Romona Farquharson, Smith’s accuser could not recall the name or gender of the student.

She also conceded that Smith’s office was small.

Smith testified that he shared an office space with two other administrators and teachers.

Senior Magistrate Algernon Allen Jr acquitted Smith after finding the charges were not proven.

The prosecution closed their case by calling the accuser and her mother.

The police investigator did not testify.