POLOKWANE – Sentencing proceedings for the murder of Thorisho Themane will continue in the Limpopo High Court: Polokwane Division tomorrow (June 28).

Read more: WATCH: Themane family hopeful for justice to prevail

The four teenagers, who were found guilty were all present in court today (June 27) as sentencing proceedings resumed.

Three of the accused teenagers have turned 18 and one turned 19 and the National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi said that the sentencing will proceed according to Child Justice Act as the offence was committed when they were minors.

The Probation Officer Malesela William Raphela submitted his reports on all four of the accused: Motimele Vincent, Michael Teffo, Tshiamo Myeni and Lesetja Ramokgopa and cross examination by the accused’s legal representation begun.

Judge asks probation officer: "did the accused say to you they aren't remorseful?"
Lawyer for accused 1,3 & 4 "how did you arrive at conclusion they aren't remorseful"?
Raphela: "in interviews, they denied causing harm to victim".@PolokwaneReview@PolokwaneObserv#ThorisoThemane

— Mmatshikhidi Rebecca Phala-Magoro (@Lizelle_becca) June 27, 2022

Raphela at one stage, told the court that imprisonment should be regarded as a last resort.

Thorisho’s brother, Karabo, told the Polokwane Review that the last half of the day’s proceedings left the family saddened and unsure as “the probation officer seemed to be easily swayed by defence lawyers.”

“We feel the judge will hand down a harsh sentence having heard what she had to say today but we await the official sentencing tomorrow before we give an official statement,” he said.

Judge Violet Semenya, before court was adjourned for the day, said the matter has been on the roll for too long and asked for it to be concluded by tomorrow.

All bail conditions remain.