Sentencing Phase Begins for Joshlin Smith’s Kidnappers as Public Awaits Justice

The final chapter in the high-profile Joshlin Smith kidnapping case is set to unfold next week, as sentencing arguments begin for the three individuals convicted of abducting and trafficking the missing seven-year-old girl.

Jacquen “Boeta” Appollis, Steveno van Rhyn, and Kelly Smith briefly appeared before Judge Nathan Erasmus in the Western Cape High Court on Friday, just days before the court reconvenes to decide their punishment. The trio was found guilty on May 2, but the heartache lingers — Joshlin has yet to be found since vanishing from her home in Diazville, Saldanha Bay, on February 19, 2024.

Sentencing to Be Held Closer to Joshlin’s Hometown

To streamline the process and reduce delays, the sentencing will take place at the White City Multipurpose Hall in Saldanha Bay. Judge Erasmus ordered that Boeta and van Rhyn be moved back to Malmesbury Prison — where they were held during trial — while Kelly Smith will be relocated to a facility closer to Saldanha.

The two-day sentencing proceedings begin on Tuesday, May 27, where the State is expected to argue for the harshest possible sentence: life behind bars. Prosecutors will likely call witnesses to present aggravating circumstances, while defence attorneys will attempt to sway the court toward leniency.

Judge Blasts Correctional Delays

Friday’s court appearance was delayed, drawing a stern response from Judge Erasmus. Visibly frustrated, he questioned the late arrival of the accused and summoned a court orderly for an explanation.

Unconvinced, Erasmus directed his registrar to write to the national commissioner of correctional services, demanding accountability. “This has become a norm in the lower courts. It is unacceptable,” he said.

Joshlin Still Missing – A Wound That Won’t Heal

As the legal proceedings near an end, the most painful truth remains: Joshlin Smith has not been found. Her disappearance continues to cast a shadow over the case, leaving her family and community with unanswered questions and unresolved grief.

The outcome of next week’s hearing will offer some legal closure, but the search for Joshlin is far from over. Her absence continues to haunt Saldanha Bay — a reminder that even as justice moves forward, the mystery at the heart of this case remains tragically unsolved.

{Source: IOL}

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