Paterson Street has made headlines for all the wrong reasons for many years, and 2015 was no different.
As wit’s end, residents recently approached the Newcastle Advertiser with concerns regarding debauchery near the old railway houses on ‘Shame Street’.
They claimed they felt like prisoners in their own homes from the moment the sun set, with sex workers ‘setting up shop‘ in the veld opposite their homes on a daily basis.
Following the publication of their allegations, a disgruntled homeowner said the situation had reached breaking point.
“If anything, prostitution in the area has worsened,” she said, the outrage evident in her voice. “We don’t know what to do anymore; things are out of hand.”
An elderly resident residing in the adjacent area said, he too, had reached the end of his tether.
“The prostitutes have sworn at us. They stop in front of my house, and play loud music,” he explained.
Suffering from a severe heart condition, he said he could not afford to get ‘worked up’. He admitted he was worried about the well-being of his children and grandchildren, who have been forced to witness the frivolous behaviour of those making use of the vacant land.
In response to the allegations, Protection Services Chief Security Officer, Pieter Marais, previously said prostitution did not fallen within the mandate and powers of Newcastle Municipality.
He stated there was no municipal bylaw in place to address prostitution, as the matter is legislated. He also said the issues needed to be directed to the SAPS and Local Prosecuting Authority.
According to SAPS spokesperson, Captain Shooz Magudulela, the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007 prohibits sexual acts for financial gain.
“The prostitution business is illegal,” he said. “It is then the duty of the arresting officer to prove beyond reasonable doubt before the court that the act [prostitution] was committed.
Capt Magudulela said if residents in the vicinity truly feared for their safety, the ‘threat’ would be dealt with immediately. In addition, he added that patrols could be conducted in the area, provided the issues were brought to the attention of the SAPS.
“If reported to the police as hotspot of crime, police can patrol any area,” concluded Capt Magudulela.
Have you experienced something similar on ‘Shame Street‘? Email us as ncschools@caxton.co.za. Alternatively, visit our offices on 70 Paterson Street.
