Sentencing in Van Rooyen trial to resume tomorrow

With the 6 accused found guilty of the double murder of Billy van Rooyen and Ronnie Lombard in 2016, the case against MJ Shezi and 5 others is drawing to a close.

After a brief delay, proceedings today were moved from Court Room C at Vryheid Magistrate’s Court, to the Regional Court on the same premises, and sentencing eventually began.

Once again, the court room was packed as the accused filed in and took their places.

The defense counsel was then afforded the opportunity to plead the cases of its clients, and tell the court why it should be lenient when imposing the sentences.

As noted by the State’s Advocate André Ludick, accused 2, 4 and 5 have previous convictions.

Accused 2 has prior convictions for escaping from custody and assault, accused 4 has a robbery conviction to his name and accused 5 has previous convictions for poaching and assault.

The arguments by the defense were based on personal circumstances of the accused, including limited education, disadvantaged backgrounds and their responsibility as breadwinners for large households.

The accused still maintain they are all innocent.

Adv Ludick put forth the first 2 counts of murder could be seen as planned or premeditated, and in the case of robbery with aggravating circumstances, the minimum sentence is 15 years.

After consideration of the compelling circumstances argued by the defense, Ludick stated not only was the April 2016 attack a heinous crime, but also showed a breakdown of society, with a disastrous impact on the community and society as a whole.

Ludick urged the court to treat the accused equally.

Shortly after 1pm, court was adjourned, with sentencing scheduled to resume at 10am tomorrow morning.

Also read: Verdict delivered in Van Rooyen murder trial

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