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Pretoria man jailed for life after rape and murder of eight-day-old daughter
A 37-year-old man from Pretoria, Hugo Ferreira, has been sentenced to two life terms by the Gauteng High Court for the rape and murder of his newborn daughter — a crime described by the judge as one of unimaginable cruelty.
Ferreira pleaded guilty in early 2023, admitting to the killing while offering a version of events that painted the crime as a moment of lost control. But the court rejected his account after hearing medical evidence that revealed a much more violent and calculated assault.
Medical evidence exposes sustained violence
Post-mortem findings showed the infant suffered repeated blunt-force injuries to her skull and neck. A needle puncture wound to her groin suggested deliberate sadism. Other signs of abuse included bruising around her throat and damage to her hyoid bone — evidence that strongly contradicted Ferreira’s claim that he had struck her only once.
The medical team also confirmed the rape was far more brutal than Ferreira admitted, reinforcing the court’s view that he downplayed the severity of the crime.
Court finds no sign of remorse
Throughout the sentencing, Ferreira showed no emotion. Judge Portia Phahlane said his lack of response to the detailed injuries indicated a chilling absence of empathy. A psychiatric report submitted to the court described Ferreira as having antisocial personality disorder — a condition often linked to violent and remorseless behaviour.
In a post-trial report, Ferreira reportedly told a probation officer that he would kill his ex-wife if ever released from prison. This revelation further convinced the court that he posed a continued danger to society.
Judge condemns premeditated brutality
In handing down the sentence, Judge Phahlane made it clear that the crime was not the result of sudden rage but rather a calculated act driven by anger and a desire to harm. She said the baby’s mother had been the target of Ferreira’s resentment, but the violence he inflicted on the infant was unjustifiable and cruel.
Ferreira was sentenced to two life terms, to run consecutively, ensuring he will remain in prison for the rest of his life.
As he was led away by court officers, Ferreira reportedly spoke briefly to his Legal Aid representative before being taken into custody to begin serving his sentence.
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Sourced:Cape Town ETC
