Stepfather arrested for toddler’s death over bed-wetting incident

SOUTH AFRICA – A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in the Northern Cape province of South Africa as a 29-year-old man was arrested for allegedly murdering his three-year-old stepson over a bed-wetting incident.

Jeremy Bosman allegedly attacked the minor, repeatedly hitting him with a broom and slamming his head against the wall. A bed-wetting accident triggered another brutal beating, resulting in loss of bodily control.

The accused was only apprehended after medical personnel discovered a pattern of severe injuries on the child’s body, prompting hospital staff to alert law enforcement.

The State, led by Mojalefa Senokoatsane alleged that on October 19, Bosman discovered that a minor had urinated in the bed and reacted violently, repeatedly striking the child on the head with his hands.

Further allegations are that he used a broom to assault the minor and subsequently slammed his head against a wall.

After the first incident, the victim wet his bed again and the accused person’s subsequent assault allegedly resulted in fatal injuries, leading to the child’s death.

According to witness testimonies and preliminary investigations, the child suffered severe injuries including difficulty eating and opening his mouth, allegedly resulting from the assault.

The court heard that subsequent medical evaluations revealed the toddler’s severe condition, including weakness and paralysis in his legs. Upon realizing the gravity of his actions, Bosman allegedly ordered the child’s mother to maintain secrecy and promptly took the injured child to De Aar New Hospital for treatment.

Upon arrival at the hospital, doctors regretfully confirmed the child’s death caused by severe injuries. Further examination revealed an alarming array of bruises on the toddler’s body especially on his back, prompting hospital staff to notify law enforcement.

This ultimately led to the apprehension of the suspect.

The accused will remain in custody until November 1 when he will formally seek bail at his next court appearance.