EC teenager jailed for toddler rape and murder

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An 18-year-old Eastern Cape man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for the rape and murder of a two-year-old boy on a farm near Kwanojoli, formerly Somerset East.

The National Prosecuting Authority said that Frans Hendricks was recently sentenced to 25 years in prison for murder and 22 years in prison for rape, and the court decided that the sentences should be served simultaneously.

The horrific incident occurred on November 19, 2023, when Hendricks was just 17 years old.

In a defense statement, the court heard the toddler and her twin sisters were visiting their grandparents at the Uitkomst farm and Hendricks, who worked on an adjacent farm, went there to socialize.

NPA spokesman Luxolo Tyali said that after leaving the meeting, Hendricks encountered the little boy, took him to nearby bushes and raped him.

He hit the boy with a “wood block,” killing him, according to the statement of claim.

His body was found the next day after a search by his grandfather, and Hendricks was arrested the same day.

Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Barry Madolo welcomed the sentence.

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of Hendricks’ crimes and ensures justice for the victim and his family. It also acts as a deterrent to would-be criminals by demonstrating our commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society,” he added.

The NPA said it would continue to prioritize cases involving child abuse and violence and ensure offenders face the full force of the law.