HOPETOWN MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IMPRISONMENT FOR ATTEMPTED RAPE OF A MINOR
08 August 2025
HOPETOWN MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IMPRISONMENT FOR ATTEMPTED RAPE OF A MINOR
Hopetown, Northern Cape – The Hopetown Regional Court has sentenced Jerry Meyers (31) to 15 years of direct imprisonment, with a non-parole period of 10 years under Section 276B of the Criminal Procedure Act, for the attempted rape of an eight-year-old girl.
The incident occurred on 5 January 2025, when the victim’s mother offered Meyers a place to sleep at her home. During the night, while the child slept, Meyers attempted to penetrate her, but her underwear prevented the assault. The mother, witnessing the act through a window, intervened immediately, stopping the accused.
DNA evidence linked Meyers to the crime, securing his conviction. He remained in custody throughout the trial, with bail denied. In addition to the custodial sentence, the court ordered the following under relevant legislation: Entry of Meyers’ name into the National Register for Sex Offenders (Section 50(2) of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act). Declaration of unfitness to possess a firearm under the Firearms Control Act.
Prosecutor Nicola van Niekerk delivered a compelling case, emphasising the NPA’s dedication to justice for vulnerable victims. She highlighted Meyers’ betrayal of the mother’s trust and urged a harsh sentence to combat the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV), particularly against children. The prosecution presented a powerful Victim Impact Statement (VIS), compiled by Court Preparation Officer Dineo Speak, which detailed the profound emotional and psychological trauma endured by the child and her family.
The NPA commends the bravery of the young victim and her mother’s swift action, which prevented further harm. This sentence underscores the NPA’s unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable, delivering justice, and sending a clear message that severe consequences await perpetrators of such heinous crimes. Ends
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539