Philip April, a 27-year-old man from Clanwilliam, was sentenced to life in prison for murdering his ex-girlfriend, Allison Plaatjies, a schoolteacher.
The judge felt that he had given a “watered down version” of the attack, which included stabbing her to death and biting her face, as well as stealing her car after the murder.
The judge said that the sentence was meant to send a clear message to those who commit gender-based violence.
What you can do:
- Reach out to local organizations that are working to end gender-based violence and find out how you can help.
- Educate yourself on the signs of an unhealthy relationship and how to support someone who may be in one.
- Donate to a charity that is working to provide resources and support to victims of gender-based violence.