We, the people of Gauteng, Roodepoort and all of South Africa, stand united in our commitment to protecting our children and seeking justice for Zak.

By signing this petition, I solemnly swear that: 

• I stand against child abuse in all its forms.
• I support the fight for Justice for Zak and all vulnerable children.
• I demand that Jonathan Fernando Cupido be denied bail and held accountable for his actions.
• I will continue to speak out, share, and take action to protect children in our community
• I believe in a justice system that prioritizes the safety and well-being of the innocent over the rights of criminals.

To: Roodepoort Magistrate Court
Subject: Urgent Appeal to Deny Bail for Jonathan Fernando Cupido (Case No: 192/2/2025)

Introduction

We, the undersigned, urgently call on the Roodepoort Magistrate Court to deny bail for Jonathan Fernando Cupido, who stands allegedly accused of the brutal assault of a defenseless two-year-old child, Zak. Given the severity of this crime and the accused’s known criminal history, we firmly believe that granting bail would pose a grave risk to the victim, the community, and the pursuit of justice.

Background Information

Jonathan Fernando Cupido is accused of the merciless beating of a two-year-old boy in a residential complex in Florida, Roodepoort. After committing this heinous act, he evaded authorities for two weeks, hiding at a friend’s house in Toekomsrus, Randfontein.

The suspect has a well-documented history of criminal activity, including petty crime, street robberies, burglaries, vehicle theft, and drug-related offenses. His arrest was only possible due to relentless efforts by the Florida Community Policing Forum (CPF) and AfriForum Roodepoort, who tracked him across multiple locations.

Given his violent tendencies and history of evasion, allowing him back into society while awaiting trial poses an extreme danger.

Legal Grounds for Denying Bail

Under South African law, bail should be denied when:

• The accused poses a threat to the victim or public safety.
• There is a risk of flight, as demonstrated by Cupido’s attempt to avoid capture.
• The crime is of such severe and violent nature that detention is necessary.

Considering Cupido’s established criminal record and recent actions, it is evident that he lacks respect for the law and will likely reoffend or flee if released.

Public Interest & Community Safety

Granting bail in this case would:

• Expose Zak and or other children to further harm, as the accused has already demonstrated a disregard for life and safety.
• Undermine public trust in the justice system, sending a dangerous message that those who harm innocent children can walk free.
• Obstruct the ongoing investigation, as the accused may attempt to intimidate witnesses or interfere with legal proceedings.

 

The Roodepoort community, law enforcement, and child protection advocates have worked tirelessly to ensure Cupido’s capture. It is imperative that the court upholds their efforts by keeping him in custody until justice is served.

Conclusion & Call to Action

We demand that Jonathan Fernando Cupido be denied bail at his upcoming bail hearing on March 5, 2025, at the Roodepoort Magistrate Court.

The brutalization of a child is an unforgivable crime, and we must stand together to ensure that the perpetrator remains behind bars. 

Justice for Zak means justice for all vulnerable children.