Couple guilty of culpable homicide

A couple was found guilty of culpable homicide, child abuse, and the rape of their 10-month-old baby by the Johannesburg High Court, sitting at the Protea Magistrate's Court, on Wednesday.

 

Adriaan Netto, 37, and his 34-year-old girlfriend will be sentenced on September 30 in the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court. The woman, who may not be named to protect the identities of their other children, cried while Judge Majeke Mabesele delivered his verdict.

 

Netto, who fled on Thursday and was re-arrested on Monday, sat quietly. Mabesele found that while they had not murdered their child, as charged, their neglect and abuse made them culpable for the baby's death. "[I] conclude that the deceased sustained bodily injuries while under the care of her parents," the judge said.

 

"They had a legal duty to look after her.... Being 10-months-old, the deceased was unable to injure herself." Mabesele said the baby's injuries, including broken ribs, anal, and vaginal damage, were inflicted on the child.

 

"[The] injuries suggest long-standing child abuse," Mabesele said. The woman's bail was extended. Netto remains in custody.

                 

- Sapa