



LOWELL, Mass. (AP) — A 22-year-old Syrian refugee is facing charges he assaulted a 13-year-old girl at a public swimming pool in Massachusetts.

The Lowell Sun reports Emad Hasso, of Lowell, pleaded not guilty Friday through an interpreter to one count of indecent assault and battery on someone under 16.

Prosecutors say Hasso approached the girl at the Raymond Lord Memorial Pool in Lowell around 5:30 p.m. Thursday, touched her thigh and asked for her age. Prosecutors allege Hasso followed the girl around the pool before approaching her again.

Hasso told authorities he’s been in the United States for about two months.

Hasso’s attorney said in court that Hasso denies touching the girl or speaking to her.

Hasso was ordered held on $25,000 cash bail. He’s due back in court July 29.

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