MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOR THE BRUTAL MURDER OF HIS PARTNER
01 August 2025
MAN SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS FOR THE BRUTAL MURDER OF HIS PARTNER
Victoria West, Northern Cape – The Victoria West Regional Court has sentenced Jan Jonkers (36) to 25 years of direct imprisonment for the brutal murder of his partner, Charlene Tieties (31), who tragically lost her life earlier this year. The conviction follows a violent domestic incident that occurred in the early hours of 30 January 2025 in Hutchinson, a small settlement approximately 12km from Victoria West.
The accused and the victim were cohabiting at the time. Evidence presented in court revealed that a verbal altercation between the couple escalated into a deadly physical assault. Jonkers struck the victim multiple times on the head and body with a knob kierie, before fatally stabbing her in the chest with a knife. A relative of the deceased, alerted to the commotion, rushed to the scene and attempted to call for emergency medical assistance. However, no ambulance was available at the time. The victim was transported to the hospital by private vehicle, but sadly succumbed to her injuries en route. The accused was arrested shortly after the incident and later pleaded guilty to the charge of murder. He was convicted based on his plea and the evidence provided.
During sentencing, State Prosecutor Caswell Joseph argued that the seriousness of the offence justified a life sentence, in line with applicable legislation. However, the court found substantial and compelling circumstances to depart from the prescribed minimum sentence and instead imposed a term of 25 years’ direct imprisonment. The court emphasised the gravity of the offence, highlighting the devastating impact on the victim’s family and the broader community. It reiterated the sanctity of human life and the urgent need to confront the scourge of gender-based violence.
“The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to vigorously prosecute such cases. We aim not only to secure justice for victims but also to deter future acts of violence, particularly those rooted in domestic abuse,” said the prosecution team. This tragic case underscores the ongoing need for communities to stand together against gender-based violence and support all initiatives aimed at its eradication.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539