Violent Stepmother Punches And Bites Teen Stepson For Not Folding Blankets

A 27-year-old Zimbabwean woman has been convicted of child cruelty in a disturbing case that highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence. The Chegutu Magistrates’ Court delivered its verdict this week following evidence of the woman’s violent outburst against her 13-year-old stepson.

Chegutu Stepmother Punches And Bites Stepson For Not Folding Blankets

Court documents reveal the horrific April 10th incident began as a dispute over household chores. When the teenager failed to fold his blankets properly, his stepmother slapped the child multiple times, punched him in the head repeatedly, and also bit the boy.

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The violent attack left visible injuries on the minor, who demonstrated remarkable courage by escaping the home in Chegutu’s Industrial Area and immediately reporting the abuse to local authorities. After reporting the case, the police immediately arrested the stepmother.

Court Delivers Mixed Sentence

In her ruling, the magistrate sentenced the offender to 10 months’ imprisonment with significant conditions:

• 4 months suspended for 5 years (conditional on good behaviour)
• 6 months potentially waived upon completion of 210 community service hours

This case has reignited discussions about child protection laws and stepparent relationships in Zimbabwe. Child welfare advocates emphasise that household chores should never escalate to physical violence, regardless of circumstances. Other people have called for the father to watch how his child is treated or get him to live with his biological mother.

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The suspended sentence serves as both a punishment and a warning, while the community service requirement aims to rehabilitate the offender through their contribution to society.