Joshlin Smith Convicts to Appear in Court Ahead of Final Sentencing

The three individuals convicted in the high-profile Joshlin Smith case—Racquel ‘Kelly’ Smith, Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, and Steveno ‘Steffie’ van Rhyn—will return to court on Friday, 23 May 2025, ahead of sentencing hearings scheduled to begin four days later.

Judge Nathan Erasmus confirmed the timeline during a sitting at the Western Cape High Court, indicating that the sentencing phase will be conducted in Saldanha over two days starting 27 May, with final sentencing expected on Thursday, 29 May.

Convicted trio to remain in custody

Smith, Appollis, and van Rhyn will stay in custody until their next court appearance to allow for final consultations with defence lawyers and the completion of social worker reports. These steps are part of the pre-sentencing process following their convictions for kidnapping and trafficking six-year-old Joshlin Smith.

Judge Erasmus noted that the court may facilitate consultations related to reparations. He also highlighted that, per standard procedure, the Department of Correctional Services requires a 48-hour notice to present the accused in court or for consultations at correctional facilities.

The court provisionally agreed that the matter will continue in Saldanha starting 27 May. Arguments in mitigation and aggravation of sentence will be presented over two days, leading to final sentencing on 29 May.

Background of the case

The trio were found guilty on 2 May 2025 at the White City Multipurpose Centre in Diazville, where Judge Erasmus delivered his judgement. The ruling brought closure to a case that has gripped the nation since the child’s disappearance over a year ago.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

Sourced:Capetownetc

Picture: BBC