Key Points
- Wayne Lawrence received life imprisonment for killing his ex and attempting to kill their daughter.
- Despite a protection order, Lawrence violated it and continued to abuse Marinus.
- The case underscores the need for stronger protections for survivors of domestic violence.
Wayne Lawrence, the ex-boyfriend of Angela Marinus, will serve life imprisonment for murdering the 36-year-old mother and attempting to murder their daughter during a domestic dispute.
The Western Cape High Court sentenced him after his conviction in June last year on nine of the 12 charges, including assault, murder, attempted murder, and reckless endangerment.
Domestic violence escalates to deadly violence
The tragic event occurred on December 11, 2017, when Lawrence shot Marinus at close range in the chin while she tried to get out of her vehicle at her parents’ house in Bishop Lavis.
During the altercation, their daughter was shot in the foot. Lawrence denied responsibility for Marinus’ death and the shooting of their daughter.
He also rejected claims of abuse throughout their 22-year common-law relationship.
Lawrence admitted to sneaking into Marinus’ yard and possessing two firearms at the time. He also acknowledged violating the interim protection order that Marinus had obtained for her safety just weeks before her death.
Courage leads to justice, need for stronger protections
Despite the protection order, Lawrence continued to harass Marinus, repeatedly abusing her and demanding she return to him.
The National Prosecuting Authority emphasized the persistent problem of gender-based violence and femicide.
NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila urged the justice system to strengthen enforcement measures for protection orders.
Siyabulela Monakale, spokesperson for the anti-GBV organization Ilitha Labantu, called for better law enforcement and enhanced support for survivors of domestic violence.
He stressed the need for more proactive measures to protect women and children from abuse, as justice alone is insufficient.
