A 30-year-old Kenyan man working at a care facility in Perth, Australia, has been sentenced to two years in prison. He coerced an elderly resident in his 80s, who had dementia, to engage in a sexual act.

The man, James Ng’ang’a Irungu, admitted to three charges of indecently interacting with the vulnerable individual. The victim also suffered from Parkinson’s disease.

Irungu, who had a strict Christian upbringing in Kenya, had kept his homosexuality hidden. He arrived in Australia in 2023 for studies at a local university. The judge issued sentences for the charges.

The first and third counts are to be served consecutively. This results in a total effective sentence of twenty-four months. Although granted parole, Irungu faces the possibility of having his visa revoked and being sent back to Kenya.

The incident sheds light on the vulnerability of elderly individuals in care facilities and the importance of safeguarding their well-being.

The case also highlights the challenges faced by immigrants in adapting to new environments. It shows the legal consequences of criminal actions, even for those with no prior criminal record.