A 34-year-old Bulawayo man has been sentenced to six months in prison after failing to comply with a court-ordered child maintenance arrangement, resulting in arrears amounting to US$210.
Takaedza Togarepi, who resides in Mahatshula North, appeared before Western Commonage magistrate Jeconia Prince Ncube, where he pleaded guilty to defaulting on maintenance payments.
The magistrate imposed a six-month custodial sentence, with three months suspended for three years on condition that Togarepi does not commit a similar offence during that period. The remaining three months were also suspended, provided he settles US$120 of the outstanding arrears by 16 January.
Prosecutor Cathrine Kuzu told the court that on 7 July, Togarepi was ordered to pay US$70 per month towards the upkeep of his minor child following an application lodged by his former wife, Thendani Ndlovu (34).
The order was to remain in effect until the child turns 18 years old. However, the court heard that Togarepi failed to make regular payments from 30 July through to 30 November, leading to accumulated arrears of US$210.
A police report was later filed, resulting in his arrest and subsequent court appearance.
