A financial services professional in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal, has been accused of sexual assault by 63 women, according to a private investigator looking into the claims. The allegations include claims of grooming, unsolicited sexually explicit images, and sexual offences involving minors. The private investigator, Brad Nathanson, was initially approached by the family of a 15-year-old girl who alleged she had been groomed by the suspect.
The allegations against the suspect date back to 2017 and involve messaging platforms including Mxit and BlackBerry Messenger. Some of the victims claim they were children when they were first contacted by the suspect. Nathanson stated that the suspect started his alleged crimes at the age of 14 and has been doing so for 18 years, now being 32 years old. The victims reported receiving unsolicited sexually explicit images while they were still at school.
According to Nathanson, some women reported that receiving explicit images from the suspect was almost a rite of passage at a particular private college in Hilton. The private investigator stated that he has been taking affidavits from women willing to pursue their allegations formally, while others have agreed to provide statements. These statements can form evidence in the way of showing the suspect's character versus evidence that can be presented in court.
A case was opened at Hilton police station in 2017 after a teacher became involved, but it was not thoroughly investigated due to a series of events, including the investigating officer's death and the docket being redispersed. Nathanson is now trying to have the matter reopened alongside new complaints. He believes that the suspect's actions have been ongoing for a long time, and it is crucial to bring him to justice.
Many of the girls who were victims of the suspect's alleged crimes kept quiet when they were younger, fearing being blamed. In one case, a girl told her father about receiving an explicit image but was punished because he believed she had initiated the interaction. Nathanson stated that it is crucial to support the victims and bring the suspect to justice, as the situation is "cruel all around."
The private investigator emphasized that he is working to support the victims and bring the suspect to justice. He stated that he is one private detective, one agency, one Facebook page, and one voice, but 63 people have come to him with their allegations. Nathanson is working to ensure that the suspect is held accountable for his alleged actions.
The case highlights the issue of gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual abuse in KwaZulu-Natal. The suspect's alleged crimes have had a significant impact on the victims, and it is essential to provide them with the necessary support. The case is ongoing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
Key points
- 63 women have come forward to accuse a KwaZulu-Natal financial services professional of sexual assault.
- The allegations date back to 2017 and involve claims of grooming, unsolicited sexually explicit images, and sexual offences involving minors.
- A case was opened in 2017 but was not thoroughly investigated due to a series of events, including the investigating officer's death.
