Westville murder case back in court
The murder case of Nicolas le Roux, accused of killing his partner Taryn le Roux, returns to the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court this week.
A HIGH-PROFILE murder case that shocked the Westville community and made headlines last year is set to resume in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on Friday, February 6.
Nicolas le Roux is accused of murdering his partner, Taryn le Roux, who was shot and killed at a Westville pub on September 15.
In December, Le Roux was denied bail after the court found he posed a significant flight risk and was not a suitable candidate for release.
The ruling was delivered by Magistrate Wendolyn Robertson following arguments from both the defence and the State.
In an affidavit read by his Legal Aid attorney, Le Roux claimed he was being unfairly treated and judged before trial.
Also read: ‘He deserves a harsh sentence’ – Family relieved as Taryn’s accused killer denied bail
He denied any intention to flee the country and said he would comply with strict bail conditions. He mentioned family responsibilities, including supporting a foster child, and said that remaining in custody would jeopardise his income and financial commitments.
The State strongly opposed bail, arguing that the killing was premeditated. The court heard that the deceased had previously obtained a protection order against Le Roux and that he had sent her threatening messages. The prosecutor alleged that he shot Taryn at close range and later admitted to the shooting in phone calls to others.
Evidence presented in court revealed that he had not voluntarily surrendered his passport, had sold off assets, and had a background in the special forces, with allegations of prior violent behaviour.
An affidavit from Taryn’s foster son, which was read in court, described Le Roux as controlling and threatening.
The court also heard that Le Roux attempted suicide after his arrest.
In refusing bail, Robertson noted that Le Roux had limited ties to South Africa. The decision was welcomed by the victim’s family and supporters, with emotional scenes from the deceased’s elderly father, Vincent Barbarovich, who said weeping that the accused deserves a harsh sentence.
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