A former Life Orientation teacher has been sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a Grade 8 learner in his classroom during school hours.

Jeremy Claasen (38), was sentenced at the Worcester Regional Court.

According to Acting Worcester Regional Court prosecutor Cornelius Prinsloo, Claasen was the victim’s life orientation teacher and had first initiated contact with her on social media when she joined the school in Grade 7, gradually building a relationship of trust.

In February 2020, the learner went to his classroom to charge her phone. After closing the door and instructing her to sit on a bench, Claasen proceeded to rape her.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said three days later he was arrested after she reported the matter to friends, the school and police.

The teenager was examined at the Worcester Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC), which also provided psycho-social support services.

The State presented the evidence of the victim through a television system with the assistance of an intermediary in a closed court session to avoid any secondary trauma of testifying in the presence of the accused.

“The State also led the evidence of the victim’s friend as the first report, as well as a medico-legal examination conducted by a doctor, which confirmed evidence of sexual penetration. Court Preparation Officer Azraa Majiet supported the victim during the trial and ensured she received court preparation,”Ntabazalila said.

Civil Rights Organisation Action Society welcomed the sentencing adding that they fully support the decision of life sentence.

“This sentence is an important step toward justice for the victim and sends a clear message that those who prey on children will face the consequences of their actions. Claasen’s abuse of power is unacceptable. We also commend the NPA – prosecution team for their dedication and hard work in securing this conviction,” said Kaylynn Palm, spokesperson for Action Society.

Palm also pointed to troubling statistics from a recent study by the National Association of School Governing Bodies (NASGB), which revealed that 16,097 teachers in South Africa have criminal backgrounds, including offences such as rape, murder, assault, theft, robbery, fraud, drug-related crimes, housebreaking, and serious road infringements.

“These statistics are deeply concerning,” Palm continued.

“Therefore, as Action Society we will keep pushing for the National Sexual Offenders List to be made public. Parents deserve the ability to verify the criminal history of those entrusted with the care of their children. We trust these individuals not only with our children’s education but also with their safety. Unfortunately, even schools have become a potential risk to their well-being.”

tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za

Weekend Argus 

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