‘Monster’s’ jail term welcomed

35 YEARS: MAN TORTURED, ABUSED FIVE CHILDREN

‘This is an example of how this type of matter should be handled by all concerned.’

The National Prosecuting Authority, the police and child protection groups welcomed the 35-year effective sentence imposed on a Springs father who tortured and severely abused his five children, but warned the system was still failing countless abused children.

Barries Barnard of nonprofit organisation Hi5 Kids Recovery Unit said the “Springs Monster” case highlighted shortcomings in the court system which did not adequately protect children.

“We have to get the system right,” he said. “Children are being failed because the system is not working. There are no more places of safety where child offenders or child victims can be taken because they are all full.”

Sister Christa Rollin of the Sexual Assault Clinic, who assessed the five children and their mother, said she was relieved the trial had been concluded successfully and that the father received a stiff sentence.

Rollin said the case was an example of how this type of matter should be handled by all concerned. It also, unfortunately, highlighted that if one person in the system – be it a police officer, prosecutor, social worker, or doctor – made one mistake, the whole case collapsed.

She said the mother was a typical battered woman who was disempowered. She felt the suspended sentence imposed on her was fair under the circumstances.

Nonprofit child protection organisation Tutela has called on Police Minister Bheki Cele and police commissioner General Khehla Sitole to classify child abuse as a priority crime. It demanded increased sentences for sexual criminals and for the sex offender list to be made public.

Tutela chief executive Dr Botha van Aarde said the release of the 2017-18 crime statistics showed that a growing number of children were being murdered.

“We cannot just sit back and watch how vulnerable children are exposed to the most horrific deeds,” he said.

NPA spokesperson Phindi Louw-Mjonondwane said the sentence sent a strong message to parents who neglected their children.

CAGED. The ‘Springs Monster’ during sentencing proceedings yesterday in the High Court in Pretoria yesterday.

Pictures: Jacques Nelles WALK OF SHAME. The ‘Springs Monster’ holds a woman’s hand as he is escorted down to the cells in Pretoria.