The Aftermath
It was in the early hours of the morning of January 13th, 2015. The family was suddenly awoken by a knock on the door, to find FBI agents presenting a search warrant for all technology in the house.
That was the morning where the suspect, living in our house, was arrested and admitted to his crimes. We were shattered.
He was arrested for viewing and distributing child pornography of the most awful type, and awaits trial on the 12 May 2015, after two postponements. The family, today, is still in total shock.
After the 37 year old male’s name was released and a press conference held, the awareness around Plettenberg Bay has certainly been on the rise. The local community have made a stand. They are passionate about stopping the abuse and brutalisation of children and praying for a fitting punishment for the people that commit such crimes, whether its viewing, distributing or manufacturing these shocking images.
This high profile case, right here on our doorstep in Plett, has raised questions – did his family not see the signs?
Tiffany from ShowMe Plett approached the alleged pedophiles brother in search of answers. He welcomed the request to meet Tiffany for a chat and answer any questions from his point of view, openly and honestly.
The family took in this young man whose life was a nightmare of being shunted into many different orphanages. Their goal was to give him a new life, accepting him as part of a loving and Christian family and offering a chance at happiness.
Unfortunately, the damage had somehow already been done. The family and brothers business has taken a huge knock as the aftermath of the suspects actions – this needs to change. The family had no idea that their kind actions would bring a situation like this into their midst, and into the community. They are dealing with the emotions of being sick to the stomach at his activities. Additionally, they are bearing the brunt of the community’s wrath for something they had NO idea was happening.
The scary part is that without the knowledge of these horrible dysfunctions of someone close to you, perpetrators, such as the suspect in question, could be part of your family without your knowledge. Their actions are extremely private and secretive.
We need to protect our upcoming generation, but we also need to nurture those who have been unfairly left in the wake of these individuals.