Hitzeroth murder sentencing delayed again as magistrate falls ill
The pre-sentencing proceedings against convicted murderer Shaun Beaton have been postponed for a second consecutive time, with the matter now expected to resume on August 7.
The pre-sentencing proceedings in the murder case relating to the death of Gert Hitzeroth have once again been postponed in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court after the presiding magistrate fell ill.
The matter was due to continue on July 29, but could not proceed because of the magistrate’s illness. A second date set for July 31 was also cancelled.
Shaun Beaton was convicted in connection with Hitzeroth’s death, which occurred on May 19, 2018.
The State alleges that Beaton struck Hitzeroth with an aluminium baseball bat during a confrontation at his home before becoming involved in the victim’s subsequent drowning in a swimming pool.
Series of postponements
The latest postponement follows several delays in the pre-sentencing proceedings.
The matter had originally been set down to continue hearing pre-sentencing evidence on July 8. However, the State prosecutor was absent due to illness, while the prosecutor arranged to stand in was also off sick.
One of the defence attorneys was also unable to attend because of illness, although an associate appeared on behalf of the defence.
The case was then postponed to July 29, but proceedings could not continue after the magistrate also fell ill. The matter has now been postponed to August 7.
Previous evidence before court
Before the postponements, the court heard further pre-sentencing evidence.
Social worker Wolmarans continued presenting her report, which included a letter written by Beaton to the Hitzeroth family expressing remorse for the events of May 19, 2018.
Her report also dealt with Beaton’s personal background, the likelihood of him reoffending and the conditions he has experienced while in custody.
The court also heard evidence from a probation officer, who presented a victim impact report on behalf of the deceased’s daughter, Chantelle Hitzeroth.
The report outlined the emotional, social and financial impact of Hitzeroth’s death on the family, while the defence challenged aspects of the report during cross-examination.
The State is expected to continue leading its remaining pre-sentencing evidence when the matter returns to court on August 7, before final sentencing proceedings can continue.
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