Paul Philipps Prinsloo, a 63-year-old man from South Africa, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for the brutal murders of his wife, Magdalenne Prinsloo, 58, and his stepdaughter, Ruzanna Prinsloo, 34.
The sentencing took place at the Pretoria High Court on March 25, 2025, after he was found guilty of premeditated murder.
The horrific killings occurred on November 27, 2023, in Kosmo Village, Hartbeespoort, where Paul, his wife, stepdaughter, and their 6-year-old granddaughter lived together.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), an argument erupted between Paul, his wife, and stepdaughter, leading Paul to go upstairs, retrieve his firearm, and shoot his stepdaughter.
When she collapsed, he shot his wife as well. He then placed a Bible on his wife’s body, seemingly trying to hide the grim act.
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After realizing both women were dead, Paul’s friend, who was at the scene, took the granddaughter and called the police, revealing what had happened.
Paul was arrested the same day and has been in custody ever since. His bail was successfully opposed by the NPA.
In court, Paul initially pleaded guilty to murder, but the state prosecutor, Advocate Bongani Khoza, presented strong evidence showing the murders were planned.
During sentencing, Paul’s defense team argued that his age and terminal illness should reduce his sentence, and that the time he had already spent in custody should also be considered.
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Advocate Khoza, however, argued for life imprisonment, highlighting the gravity of the crime and its link to the widespread issue of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa.
The prosecutor emphasized the need for a strong message to be sent to combat such violence.
Judge Mashudu Munzhelele acknowledged the defendant’s age, health, and remorse, but still sentenced him to 25 years in prison, noting the seriousness of the crime.
