The ex-police officer, who made headlines last week for a viral video showing him assaulting his son with bricks and a wire, has been sentenced to perform 240 hours of community service by a Harare magistrate.
Knowell Muzenda, 39, pleaded guilty to ill treatment of a minor when he appeared before Harare magistrate, Ayanda Dhlamini.
Initially, Muzenda was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment before 6 months were suspended on condition of good behaviour for the next five years. The remaining 12 were suspended on condition he performs 240 hours of community service at Mabvuku police station.
In mitigation, Muzenda’s lawyer, Mr. Lucky Mauwa, had submitted that the accused is a first offender ,who pleaded guilty to the charges hence he must be given a non custodial sentence.
He also emphasized that in cases involving minor children, the court must prioritize the child’s well-being.
He also told the court that expert evidence of the doctor shows that the injuries were moderat and that there is no possibility of permanent injuries.
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Muzenda through his lawyer also submitted that he is willing to go for Positive Parenting Session for him to reform.
According to State papers, on October 6, in Eastview, Muzenda sent his son to buy spaghetti at a nearby tuckshop.
The boy returned later than expected.
This did not go down well with Muzenda who then assaulted him with a black rubber rope, a wire, and bricks.
The boy sustained a swollen left cheek, bruises on the back, a swollen right leg and pain all over his body.