A 15-year-old boy was sentenced to eight years for assaulting another child.
The Kimberley Regional Court has convicted and sentenced a 15-year-old boy in terms of the Child Justice Act to compulsory detention at a youth and childcare centre for five (5) years, followed by a further three (3) years’ imprisonment.
The sentencing follows an incident that occurred on 18 December 2024 at Longlands near Delportshoop, where the accused raped a 5-year-old boy in the bathroom of his parents’ home.
After the assault, the victim returned home and experienced difficulty sitting. His aunt noticed his discomfort and questioned him, whereupon he broke down and revealed what had happened.
The incident was immediately reported to the police, and the victim was taken to hospital for a medical examination.
The suspect was subsequently arrested on 20 December 2024 and processed in accordance with the Child Justice Act.
Following his first court appearance on 23 December 2024, he was detained at a place of safety for juveniles in Kimberley and later abandoned his right to apply for bail.
The Frances Baard District SAPS management commended Constable Patience Fortuin of the Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for her thorough investigation, which led to the successful conviction and sentencing.
The South African Police Service emphasizes that every child deserves protection, care, and dignity.
The public is urged to break the silence and report any form of abuse by contacting:
SAPS Crime Stop: 08600 10111
GBVF Command Centre: 0800 428 428
Childline: 116
Human Trafficking Hotline: 0800 222 777
