Domestic violence: Week 1

It recently was brought to the Herald‘s attention that domestic violence is an ongoing crime in Randfontein.

In light of this, I decided to educate the public on what exactly domestic violence is.

The information received was sent by a well-known contact of mine, Louis Grobler of Security in Practice and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

I will release a weekly note regarding the matter.

Domestic violence:

Domestic violence or abuse is regulated by the Domestic Violence Act. This Act is applicable when domestic violence takes place in a domestic relationship.

What is a domestic relationship?

A domestic relationship exists with:

• someone you are or were married to

• your parents or guardian

• any family member(s), including your own child(ren)

• anyone you have been living with, whether married or not

• your partner of the same sex

• someone you went out with, even for a short time, or had sex with; or

• someone with whom you share a child.

What is domestic violence? The following can be regarded as domestic violence:

• Sexual abuse (whether married or not)

• Physical abuse or assault

• Threats of harm

• Damage to property or anything you value

• Repeatedly following or approaching you or your children (stalking)

• Economic abuse – keeping money to which you are legally entitled from you in an unreasonable manner, by –

• refusing to pay or share the rent or mortgage bond for the home you share; or

• disposing of any property (household goods) in which you have interest, without permission

• Emotional abuse (degrading or humiliating behaviour, including repeated insults, belittling, name-calling or threats)

• Any other controlling or abusive behaviour which may harm your safety, health or well-being