‘Well-known Cape Town musician’ charged with rape and grooming

A popular jazz artist who has been an integral part of the Cape Town music scene was released on R1 000 bail on Monday, after appearing in court to face charges of rape and sexual grooming.

Cape Town musician accused of raping young student

The alleged offender, who cannot be named by the media due to legal reasons, also served as a director at a local school of music. A former student came forward to police, to detail a six-year ordeal of sustained abuse.

The musician has denied the accusations and plans to plead not guilty once the case returns to court in October. However, the NPA revealed through a statement that more charges are likely to be added to his rap sheet – another key reason why the suspect has been granted anonymity, due to the sensitive age of any other potential victims (as well as his plea remaining unsubmitted).

“A Cape Town jazz musician and director of an Athlone music school appeared at the Bluedowns Magistrate’s Court yesterday morning. [He was] charged with rape, sexual assault and sexual grooming. He has been released on bail of R1 000. More charges are likely to be added as the investigation continues.”

NPA statement on the Cape Town musician allegations

Victim receives support from local performers

It’s alleged that the child was just 14 years old when he was first assaulted, and they have told the authorities that the abuse carried on until he was 20. Meanwhile, the well-known comedian Shimmy Isaacs shared her support for the victim online, vowing to continue her fight against crimes of this nature.

“Regarding the news of the [music icon], I stand in support of the victim that so bravely found the courage to come forward and share their traumatic story of sexual abuse. I will not be silenced on this matter as an activist in gender abuse. Your child is our child.”

Shimmy Isaacs