A former Knysna police officer has been sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted on multiple charges, including corruption, fraud, forgery, and defeating the administration of justice.
The Knysna Magistrate’s Court found that between September and October 2020, Sgt Ralton Pietersen, 48, unlawfully solicited money from a member of the public, claiming he could assist in having outstanding fines withdrawn. At the time, Pietersen was stationed at the Knysna South African Police Service (SAPS).
Investigators revealed that Pietersen pocketed R2,000 from the victim, prompting the case to be referred to the Hawks’ Serious Corruption Investigation unit based in George. Following a detailed probe, Pietersen was formally charged in May 2021.
After his conviction, the court this week imposed an effective six-year term of imprisonment.
Western Cape Hawks provincial head, Major-General Mathipa Makgato, welcomed the sentence, describing it as a strong message against abuse of power within law enforcement.
“As the Hawks, we hope that the outcome of this case reaffirms that no one is above the law,” Makgato said. “It also underscores the importance of protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system by holding those who abuse their authority accountable.”
