STEPFATHER SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE OF 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL 

10 February 2026 

STEPFATHER SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE OF 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL 

The Sterkspruit Regional Court has sentenced a 29-year-old stepfather to 25 years’ direct imprisonment after he was convicted of raping his 13-year-old stepdaughter. The conviction relates to incidents that occurred between 01 November 2024 and 10 December 2024 in Sterkspruit. The court held that the man exploited his position of trust within the household and targeted the child while her mother was at work. On one occasion, while the victim was washing dishes, the stepfather pulled her onto a mattress, prevented her from calling for help, and raped her before threatening her with death if she disclosed the incident. 

The accused further told the child that because her mother was no longer intimate with him, he would force himself on her. Out of fear and intimidation, the victim remained silent about the abuse until she went to a clinic, where it was discovered that she was pregnant. That led to the matter being reported to the authorities and the subsequent arrest of the man. 

The accused pleaded not guilty and raised a bare denial of the allegations. Against this denial, Regional Court prosecutor Anele Magibile presented compelling evidence, including the testimony of the minor, the first report witness, who was the victim’s mother, and medical evidence contained in the J88 report, which corroborated the child’s account. After electing to testify in his defence, the accused gave his version of events but, under rigorous cross-examination, made material concessions and ultimately admitted to committing the offence, expressing remorse. 

In aggravation of sentence, the prosecution emphasised the prevalence of sexual offences against children, the serious breach of trust by a parental figure, and the vulnerability and defencelessness of the victim. The court also heard that the child was subjected to secondary victimisation by having to testify in court and face her perpetrator, and that the offence had a profound psychological impact on her wellbeing, development and schooling. 

In addition to the 25-year jail term, the court declared the man unfit to possess a firearm and his name was ordered to be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders. The court underscored that rape of a minor, particularly by a caregiver, is a grave offence that warrants severe punishment. 

Welcoming the sentence, Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Barry Madolo, commended the prosecution and investigation teams for their dedication in securing justice for the victim. “This sentence reflects the seriousness with which our courts view sexual offences against children, particularly where the perpetrator is a parent or caregiver entrusted with the child’s safety. Such acts constitute a profound betrayal of trust and leave lasting emotional and psychological harm,” said Madolo. He further expressed appreciation to the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Sibonde, for the thorough investigation and commitment that contributed to the successful prosecution of the matter. 

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting children and ensuring that perpetrators of gender-based violence and femicide are held accountable. 

Issued by: 

Luxolo Tyali 

NPA Regional Spokesperson 

Eastern Cape Division 

Tel: 0475012630 

Cell: 0735559292 

Email: ltyali@npa.gov.za 

Enquiries: nmakupula@npa.gov.za/0682682473