The case surrounding the death of Gert Hitzeroth, who was killed on May 19, 2018, remains ongoing as legal proceedings continue in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court.

Shaun Beaton, who has been charged with murder, stands accused of striking Hitzeroth with an aluminium baseball bat during a confrontation at the accused’s home. The State further alleges that Beaton was involved in Hitzeroth’s subsequent drowning in a swimming pool.

Proceedings returned to court on April 20 for pre-sentencing discussions.

During the latest hearing, the State prosecutor confirmed that all relevant reports had been obtained. These include pre-sentencing reports, correctional supervision reports, victim impact reports, and probation reports intended to assist the court in determining an appropriate sentence.

However, the defence raised concerns regarding the late receipt of these documents, stating that the reports were only provided on Sunday, March 19. Additionally, the State indicated that not all witnesses were currently available to proceed.

The defence has requested a postponement, citing the absence of a key social worker responsible for compiling part of the pre-sentencing report.

According to the defence, the social worker is currently ill and unable to complete her assessment.

“The social worker has picked up an illness and she’s unavailable to do her reports; we are awaiting her reports,” the defence told the court.

In light of these developments, the matter has been postponed to June 5 and June 12. Proceedings are expected to continue with the presentation of outstanding pre-sentencing reports, witness testimonies, and a possible sentencing hearing.

Shaun Beaton remains in custody pending the continuation of the case.

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