The accused was found guilty on three charges of rape, two charges of kidnapping and two charges of robbery
A NORTHERN CAPE man was sentenced to 100 years’ imprisonment after he was found guilty of raping a 72-year-old woman in Griekwastad.
Police spokesperson Colonel Mashay Gamieldien said that the accused, Ronald Hartbees, was sentenced in the Northern Cape High Court on Wednesday.
She said the accused and his accomplice broke into the home of the 72-year-old woman in Griekwastad on March 17, 2017, at about 3pm, and again on March 19, 2017, at about 6pm.
“The woman was alone at home at the time of the incident. The two broke down the door to gain entry into the house and assaulted the victim with a bottle and knife while demanding money from her.”
Gamieldien said that the woman was dragged into a bedroom where both accused took turns raping her.
“After raping her, they tied her hands and covered her mouth with tape and left the scene. “The duo returned to the scene of crime on March 19, 2017 and found the victim in the shower, dragged her into the bedroom and raped her again.
“After raping her, they ransacked the house and fled, but were apprehended and arrested shortly afterwards by the police.”
She said that Hartbees, who was found guilty of three charges of rape, two charges of kidnapping and two charges of robbery, would spend 20 years behind bars as the sentences would run concurrently.
He received three 20-year prison sentences for three counts of rape, a further two 10-year sentences for two counts of kidnapping and two 10-year sentences for two counts of robbery.
“He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
“The second accused pleaded not guilty and his trial will be heard in the Northern Cape High Court on April 12,” added Gamieldien.
The provincial head of the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit, Brigadier Nicky Mills, commended the investigating officer, Constable Nomonde Mothelesi, for the meticulous and thorough investigation which led to the conviction and sentencing.
