These palookas should hang their heads in shame
It seems that once again the justice cluster has let the country down
JOAO SOUSA of Bonaero Park writes:
In October last year the Editor kindly published my letter expressing disappointment that at the seemingly lax way the case of the “manhole cover couple” was being handled, and hoping that Express would follow the case, which would thus apply pressure so justice is hopefully meted out.
Self confessed drug addicts Engela Smith and Stephen Gruindeling were caught on CCTV footage stealing manhole covers, with the added confirmation of witnesses. A sizable amount of stolen scrap metal was found in their possession by the police.
Later, the offending scrap metal dealership was closed down but without the owner even been charged for possession of stolen goods. The thieving couple were released on bail on their own recognisance, which indicated the court wasn’t taking their crime very seriously.
Express indeed did their usual exemplary civic duty by publishing follow up reports of the case but imagine my disappointment when I read a report that the State had inexplicably withdrawn charges against the couple, despite the welter of evidence against them.
The NPA didn’t have the courtesy to advise the public, who pay their salaries, of the reason for the withdrawal of the charges against Smith and Gruindeling. It sends a pathetic message of deterrence to the burgeoning hordes of criminals.
It seems that once again the justice cluster has let the country down. Either the cops or the NPA, or both organs, have not done their job properly. Scrap metal/cable theft and rampant narcotics abuse is rapidly crippling South Africa, but in the absence of any reasons given for withdrawing charges against the couple, it seems like the authorities don’t give a damn.
If the police thought the couple deserved some leniency, it should not be their decision to let them off scott free. They should have gone to trial and let the magistrate decide their fate, if necessary, incorporating drug and behavioural rehabilitation.
The justice system palookas should collectively hang their heads in shame!
