Alleged victim collapses during Monkeya’s trial

The alleged victim collapsed yesterday morning while testifying for the government in the ongoing jury trial of Melvin Ilo Monkeya, a former Tinian police officer accused of sexually abusing her in 2008 when she was 14 years old inside the Tinian police station.

Saipan Tribune learned that the alleged victim was rushed to the Tinian Health Center after she fainted during her testimony on the stand. She reportedly has a history of anxiety attacks.

The alleged victim returned in the afternoon to finish her testimony.

The prosecutors also called Monkeya’s son to the witness stand.

The trial, which is being held at the Superior Court Tinian, will continue today. Associate Judge Joseph N. Camacho is presiding.

Chief prosecutor Shelli Neal and assistant attorney general Chemere McField are prosecuting the case. Attorney Jennifer Dockter is counsel for Monkeya, who is charged with one count of sexual abuse of a minor in the first degree.