By Phumlani Saul
A father’s day sick joke turned stomachs in a Gqeberha courtroom yesterday as Robin Clarke, wearing a “Best Dad Ever” T-shirt, was found guilty of murdering his 19-month-old stepdaughter, Krisley Dirker.
The little girl, who was brutally beaten to death in 2013, had been in Clarke’s care when she suffered fatal head injuries. Clarke claimed the toddler had fallen and hit her head, but Judge Vuyokazi Noncembu rejected his version, saying it was “inconceivable” that such injuries could occur from a simple fall.
Krisley’s mother, Kristen Clarke, was acquitted of murder but found guilty of child abuse and neglect. The judge slammed Kristen for failing to protect her daughter and instead covering for her husband’s abuse.
The couple, who have three children together, showed no remorse as they were led away. Clarke even flipped the bird to a family friend in court, prompting cries of “Justice for Krisley”.
The case has sparked outrage and calls for justice, with the prosecution describing it as one of the most horrific cases of child abuse they’ve ever seen. Clarke will remain in custody pending sentencing, while Kristen was granted bail to care for their children.
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