A mother has testified in the Johannesburg High Court about the circumstances that led to her 13-year-old daughter becoming involved in prostitution. She described how the family lost everything, including their home and car, and ended up sleeping under a tree.

The woman, who cannot be named because her children are minors, and Heidelberg lawyer Carel (Callie) Schoeman face nearly 70 charges that include rape, human trafficking and the production of child pornography. The state closed its case on Monday.

Johannesburg High Court Hears How Family Hardship Led to Daughter’s Involvement

The mother told the court that an engagement breakdown left her and her children without shelter.

“I was engaged to a person. He threw us out of the house and I had nowhere to go with my children,”

she said.

She described losing all possessions:

“We lost everything, our place to live, car, everything. We had to sleep under a tree.”

The woman said her daughter wanted to contribute financially because the family was struggling. She denied forcing her daughter into prostitution.

Mother Shares Her Own History and Online Advertisements

The mother further testified that she herself had become involved in prostitution at the age of 13. She stated that her photographs and videos were posted on two websites advertising sex.

Despite facing serious charges, she maintained that she had not compelled her daughter to take part in any such activity.

Schoeman Signals Plan to Apply for Case Dismissal

Schoeman, accused of hiring the minor for sex, indicated after the state closed its case that he intends to file an application for dismissal. He believes the prosecution has not presented enough evidence against him.

The mother and Schoeman together face nearly 70 charges. The trial is being heard in the Johannesburg High Court.