KWEKWE – A Kwekwe man, Godknows Nyevere Nyamadzawo (40), has narrowly avoided a jail sentence after pleading guilty to assaulting a sex worker. Appearing before Magistrate Mildred Matuvi, Nyamadzawo received a four-month prison term, which was subsequently commuted to 70 hours of community service at Dambudzo Primary School.
His plea for leniency centred on the potential impact on his marriage, a factor that weighed heavily on the Magistrate’s decision.
The incident occurred on October 19th, 2024, around 11 pm at Mbizo 7 Big Bar. Nyamadzawo had engaged the sex worker’s services and, following their encounter, proceeded to his residence. It was at this point that the altercation occurred.
The prostitute refused Nyamadzawo’s request to spend the night at his home. This refusal triggered a violent reaction from Nyamadzawo, who assaulted her with his fists. The victim subsequently reported the assault to the police, leading to Nyamadzawo’s arrest and subsequent court appearance.
In court, Nyamadzawo openly admitted his guilt, stating: “I admit that I committed the offence but I am pleading with this court not to let my wife know about this because it will destroy my marriage, this happened whilst she attending to some issues in the rural area.”
His plea highlighted the personal consequences he feared beyond the legal ramifications of his actions. This unusual plea for leniency, based on the potential disruption to his marital life, presented a unique challenge for the Magistrate.
Magistrate Matuvi, in handing down her sentence, considered the mitigating circumstances presented by Nyamadzawo. While acknowledging the seriousness of the assault, she acknowledged his guilty plea and remorse. The commutation of the prison sentence to community service reflects a balanced approach, aiming to address the crime while also considering the defendant’s personal circumstances and his plea to protect his marriage.
