A 24-year-old woman from Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for stealing funds from her church to cover medical expenses for her ill mother.
Bridget Chiedza admitted to taking US$118 and R431 from Bethel Church’s funds, citing financial difficulties and her mother’s urgent need for treatment as motivation.
The incident took place on August 4, 2024, when Chiedza, a trusted church member, was given the money by church secretary Prisca Moyo following instructions from the pastor.
However, when church officials sought the funds back for accounting purposes, Chiedza became unreachable and even blocked members who attempted to contact her. This led the church to report the matter to the police, resulting in her arrest.
In court, Chiedza tearfully appealed for leniency, explaining her actions were driven by her mother’s illness and her inability to afford necessary treatment. “My mother was sick in the rural areas, and I needed money for her treatment,” she told Western Commonage magistrate Learnear Khumalo. She expressed remorse and promised to repay the stolen amount.
Considering her circumstances, the court imposed a conditional sentence. While Chiedza received a 12-month prison term, three months were suspended on condition of staying crime-free for five years.
Another six months were suspended if she completes 210 hours of community service at Cowdray Park Health Services. The remaining three months will be suspended if she repays the full amount by November 15, 2024.
