Hearing aid delay postpones Child Assault Trial

Thabazimbi – The long-running trial involving child assault allegations against Ria Oberholzer, Petrus Oelofse, and Jesica Hull has once again been postponed — this time due to a practical but significant obstacle: one of the key witnesses is hearing-impaired and requires assistive hearing devices to testify.

At the Thabazimbi Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, the case was postponed to 21 and 22 July 2025 to allow time for the necessary hearing aids and supporting equipment to be delivered. The court confirmed that the devices have been ordered and are expected to arrive within the week.

Petrus Oelofse faces serious charges of sexual assault and child neglect, while Ria Oberholzer and Jesica Hull stand accused of child neglect and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. All three accused remain out on bail as proceedings continue.