Alexi Bizos Escapes Jail Time, Fined R100K for Assaulting Former Spouse Monique Van Oosterhout

Johannesburg – Alexi Bizos, the son of the late struggle icon George Bizos, has been sentenced to a fine of R100,000 or one year in prison, alongside six months of correctional supervision that will entail 20 hours a month of community service at shelters for women who have experienced abuse.

In July of the previous year, the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court found Bizos guilty of assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, related to an incident in 2015 where his then-wife, Monique van Oosterhout, suffered six broken ribs.

More than nine years after the assault on Van Oosterhout at their home in Johannesburg, Bizos was convicted of the crime.

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Commenting on the sentencing handed down on Valentine’s Day, AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit noted that the 63-year-old Bizos’ sentence sends a powerful message to those who commit gender-based violence.

The unit, which represented van Oosterhout, affirmed its commitment to advocating for victims affected by this issue.

Advocate Gerrie Nel, who leads AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit, initiated the trial in January 2020 after taking up the case in 2018.

“Yesterday, the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court sentenced Bizos, son of the late struggle stalwart George Bizos, to a fine of R100,000 or one year in prison; along with six months of correctional supervision, which includes 20 hours a month of community service at women’s shelters,” stated the unit.

Magistrate Tshepo Twala conveyed that Bizos exhibited no remorse and did not recognize the wrongfulness of his actions.

The magistrate expressed concern that the accused lacked understanding of the crime and its impact on van Oosterhout.

Magistrate Twala highlighted that domestic violence is a widespread issue demanding significant penalties for perpetrators.

“It cannot be overlooked that the victim was a vulnerable woman in the safety of her own home when the assault occurred. Gender-based violence empowers the aggressors,” noted Magistrate Twala.

“In this instance, the accused assaulted the complainant out of a desire to assert his authority and belittle her.”

Bizos avoided prison time due to his age and status as a first-time offender.

Van Oosterhout expressed her relief that the case has concluded.

“I want to extend my gratitude to AfriForum for their unwavering support, not only for myself but for all women,” she remarked.

Advocate Nel deemed the sentence fitting.

“This private prosecution, the conviction, and the resulting sentence communicate a clear message: women should speak out and refuse to accept violence inflicted upon them because there will be those who will listen,” stated Advocate Nel.

“Despite the shortcomings of the criminal justice system, women should not resign themselves to being victims.

“The court recognized its role in combating this crisis with sentences that reflect the severity of the offenses and act as a deterrent.”

The unit filed an application for a costs order against Bizos and the National Prosecuting Authority to cover expenses related to the private prosecution.

This matter has been postponed to March 28 for a ruling.