Breaking News Update

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court again postponed the murder case against Bevan van Druten (53), who is accused of killing Nicky van Heerden (54), on Monday 17 August, as he remains on the waiting list for admission to Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital in Cape Town for his court-ordered psychiatric assessment.

Represented by defence attorney Peter Daubermann, Van Druten appeared in court alongside state prosecutor Cameron Roode. The matter continues to hinge on his placement in the facility.

Van Druten appeared in court wearing black jeans and a black top, and his hair and beard were tied back.

At the time of his previous appearance, Van Druten was awaiting admission to Valkenberg. He was then reportedly number 39 on the waiting list. The court was informed today that he is now 26th.

The assessment is required before the matter can proceed.

Roode informed the court that the State had submitted applications from various media houses, including George Herald, seeking permission to film and record the proceedings.

Daubermann objected, arguing that such applications should be brought through a proper application supported by an affidavit, served timeously on both the defence and prosecution and moved by a legal representative.

Roode said the application was submitted on behalf of the media, that the request was in the public’s interest and that the court had previously allowed filming and recording. He also submitted that the respective media representatives were present in court.

Daubermann maintained that the media did not have local standing to appear in person and that the defence could not appear on their behalf. He argued that the application should be properly moved by legal representatives.

Magistrate Stephan Lourens ruled that, for future reference, the media should bring a proper application and ensure that it is served timeously on both the defence and prosecution.

The court also confirmed that an order had been granted for Van Druten’s placement at Valkenberg. The defence had no objection to the matter being postponed, pending bed placement.

Daubermann raised a further issue regarding some outstanding video material. It was confirmed that the State had undertaken to provide this footage to the defence on or before Friday 28 August.

The matter was postponed to 28 September for the pending bed placement at Valkenberg and the psychiatric assessment. The court also confirmed the State’s undertaking regarding the outstanding video material.

Van Druten remains in custody.

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