adminThandeka Moyo Court Reporter
A BULAWAYO man has been ordered to restitute his cousin to avoid a two-year jail term for taking over property left to her by her late parents after he declared that it was unacceptable for a girl child to inherit any assets. Godwill Chapoterera, 29, allegedly stole household property and a car in 2008 from his then 11-year-old cousin.
He pleaded not guilty to one count of theft from a deceased’s estate. In passing sentence, regional magistrate Dzira ordered Chapoterera to restitute $3,330 to Melissa Chapoterera, who is now 19 years old by the end of June 2016 or face imprisonment.
“The court is satisfied that the State managed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt. “Accused is sentenced to 30 months imprisonment of which six months are suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour,” said magistrate Dzira.
He suspended the other 24 months on condition that Chapoterera compensates what he took and performs 560 hours of community service. Melissa told the court that her cousin confiscated her property while she was living with her grandmother.
“I remember sometime in 2008, my cousin went to a house in Nketa 8 during my absence and took away my car, wardrobe, blankets, table and clothing. He took advantage of the fact that I was a juvenile,” said Chapoterera.
“I asked him why he was stealing my property but he told me I was a girl and that he could do as he pleases. He also said the house belonged to him and that I had to forgo owning any of the properties.”
Tinashe Dzipe said Melissa’s late parents had registered their estate at the High Court.
derick.khumalo