Denise Hattingh: Case postponed for medical report

The case against former Kempton Park hairdresser Denise Hattingh, accused of murder, resumed in the Kempton Park Regional Court on May 21.

The magistrate postponed the matter to June 5, pending a doctor’s report from the Johannesburg prison.

Hattingh’s defence attorney, Obed Lewete, informed the court although he could consult with his client, she does not recall certain aspects of the case.

ALSO READ: Health concerns for Denise Hattingh mount amid murder trial delays

During her previous court appearance on April 17, Lewete stated he experienced difficulty consulting with Hattingh.

He also revealed a person recently approached his office with new information related to the case, prompting the need for further verification and additional consultations with Hattingh and another complainant.

The case has faced several delays. On March 27, the court postponed proceedings for the submission of admissions.

At the time, Lewete indicated he had received instructions to submit representations to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), arguing the case should not be classified as premeditated murder.

He also stated the defence did not require assessors and noted Hattingh was unwell.

During Hattingh’s March 4 appearance, the defence submitted representations requesting that she be charged under the minimum sentence of 15 years, rather than the life sentence the State is pursuing.

ALSO READ: DENISE HATTINGH: Another postponement in case

Both the defence and prosecution are still awaiting the DPP’s decision on the matter.

Hattingh stands accused of murdering 29-year-old Markus Greeff on May 15, 2023, at a property on West Street in Pomona.

The police arrested her the following day after they issued a search for her in connection with the murder.