KEY POINTS
- The victim endured years of sexual abuse by her stepfather.
- A sibling’s report in 2022 finally led to an arrest.
- DNA evidence secured the conviction and a life sentence.
According to authorities, a father who abused his stepdaughter, coerced her into marriage, and made repeated threats to kill her has been sentenced to life in prison.
Stepfather turned predator: Years of hidden abuse revealed
The victim’s stepfather, the accused, would wait for her to get home from school before sexually abusing her and threatening to kill her. While they were still residing in Middleburg, he even went so far as to forbid her from going to school and compel her to marry him, according to police spokeswoman Brig. Selvy Ledwaba.
Authorities claim that the woman endured extreme trauma, including being imprisoned, having her privates sliced with a razor, and being whipped with a makeshift belt. The accused forcibly returned her to Dennilton RDP Phase 2 when she fell pregnant at the age of 15.
Her cries for assistance were ignored for years. Law police stepped in after a sibling reported the abuse in 2022. The Groblersdal Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offenses Unit (FCS) was brought in by the prosecutor during the trial after he became suspicious. The victim eventually disclosed the full scope of her abuse as a result.
DNA evidence became the turning point in the case
The culprit was arrested in December 2022 after DNA evidence connected him to the crime, marking a turning point in the investigation. After a protracted court case, he was found guilty and given a life sentence after his bail was refused.
As stated by IOL, the lead investigator, Sgt. Lethuba Tsheola, received recognition for his contribution to the administration of justice.
According to Lt. Gen. Thembi Hadebe, the regional police commissioner, “this sentence serves as a reminder that justice will prevail, no matter how long it takes.”
