The Heroine of Noetzie
In 1995, the SAPS and the State Prosecutor erred when they released Francois Coetzee, an alleged rapist and attempted murderer, on bail. It was an astonishingly criminal act as they were aware of his violent history (and he was already on a 4 year suspended sentence for indecent assault).
Alix Carmichele, a Knysna photographer who had repeatedly appealed against his release, became his next victim. In the once tranquil suburb of Noetzie, Francois beat Alix with the handle of a pick-axe and attempted to stab her several times in the chest. Miraculously, she escaped (read the full details at Carte Blanche – below the current featured video).
Alix sued the state for failing in their “duty to care”. Her 12 year battle with the “justice” system resulted in a win for her…and for us because it set a legal precedent.
Francois was sentenced to 21 years but is now eligible for parole.
Leap of Faith, an SABC 3 documentary programme, featured and interviewed Alix Carmichele. Alix is a heroine and a shining example that no matter how daunting the odds can be against us, they are beatable! I encourage you to watch the episode below (if you have slow internet, wait for it to start and then Pause it for 2 minutes so that it can buffer):
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Our Purpose in a Nutshell
Our goal is a safer Knysna. Our police and municipality have failed to put the public first, not only refusing transparency and accountability but issuing bizarre statements such as crime is down. If anything, the statistics are being dumbed down and bad cops have permeated the justice system. The only way that we will regain control over our lives is by participating in the process, motivating and reminding them that their job is to protect and serve us, the public. An ideal outcome would be respect for one another under a shared vision. For more details read Our Mission which can be found in the top menu bar. 