Assault accused sentenced to three years' imprisonment

THE Warrenton district court has sentenced Joseph Brandt, 29, to an effective three years of direct imprisonment after he was convicted of assaulting his 28-year-old partner. 

The accused was found guilty on two separate counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) in December 2024 and April 2025. 

National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the first incident was only enrolled four months later due to outstanding investigations. 

"Four months later, in April this year, he assaulted the same victim again, leading to the opening of a second case at the Warrenton police station. Both matters were subsequently enrolled and brought before the court." 

He added that in the face of overwhelming evidence, Brandt pleaded guilty to both charges and was convicted as charged.

"During sentencing, state prosecutor Mpho Mooketsi argued that Brandt had shown a flagrant disregard for the rule of law. The court heard that the initial non-enrolment of the first case appeared to embolden his violent conduct, as he continued to act with impunity." 

Senokoatsane stated that Brandt had a previous murder conviction.

"In addition, a protection order was granted in favour of the complainant, as none was in place at the time of sentencing.

"The state highlighted that serious past offences had failed to rehabilitate or deter him from further violent behaviour."

He indicated that the NPA would continue to prosecute incidents of gender based violence and femicide.

"The NPA further urges victims, families, and communities to play an active role in holding perpetrators accountable by reporting incidents and opening criminal cases. Community involvement is critical in ensuring that there is no safe haven for offenders and that those who commit such crimes face prosecution and appropriate sentencing," Senokoatsane said.