Fraserburg father sentenced for assaulting one-year-old son

A 26-YEAR-OLD father from Fraserburg has been convicted and sentenced for assaulting his one-year-old son, following a disturbing incident that sparked an investigation by the Calvinia SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the incident occurred on October 31, 2023, when tensions flared during a dispute between the father and the child’s mother. In a moment of violent frustration, the father turned his aggression on the toddler, attempting to strangle the child.

The police acted swiftly after receiving a report of the incident. Detective Warrant Officer David Matthys of the Calvinia FCS Unit led the investigation, which resulted in the arrest of the father. He was later released on bail pending the outcome of the trial.

Appearing in the Fraserburg Regional Court on May 7, 2025, the father was found guilty of child abuse. He received a sentence of four years’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years on the condition that he does not reoffend. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Sergeant Shemane said the Northern Cape police have reiterated their commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society and ensuring that justice is served in cases involving violence against women and children.