Springs Monster’s appeal not in the interests of justice and healing

4 October 2018

The appeal by the “Springs Monster” of his 35 year sentence that was handed down at the North Gauteng High Court in Tshwane is not in the interest of justice and healing.

The sentence follows his conviction for the severe abuse of his five children, the rape of his eldest daughter, attempted murder of his son, drug possession and obstruction of justice.

The fact that he wants to appeal his sentence is a clear signal that he does not take responsibility for the abuse he subjected his children to for 10 years.

His name cannot be disclosed to protect the identities of his children.

We welcome the fact that his ex-wife was found guilty of child neglect, drug possession, obstruction of justice and defeating the ends of justice.

The DA hails this sentence as a victory of the criminal justice system, but would like to see this becoming a normal part of any sentencing process of a serious sex offender.

The abuse of women and children is too common a feature in our communities, and we need to ensure that we have a working criminal justice system and social development programmes, which act to keep our women and children safe.

Issued by Refiloe Nt’sekhe, DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Social Development, 4 October 2018