Update
NATIONAL NEWS - Sentencing proceedings in the Amber Lee Hughes case have been postponed for a second consecutive day after the defence requested more time to consult with the accused and review electronic evidence.
The Johannesburg High Court granted the postponement, with proceedings now set to continue tomorrow.
Hughes was previously convicted of rape and premeditated murder.
Defence cites consultation and electronic access issues
Marius Bouwer, Hughes’ defence attorney, told the court that delays were due to significant challenges in securing consultations with the accused and obtaining access to electronic material required for mitigation.
He said the defence still needed information from iCloud, which could take up to four hours to incorporate into the material to present mitigation factors for sentencing.
Bouwer explained that the case was initially set down in October for two days, during which the defence called Carina Wolmarans, a social worker, as a witness and submitted her report. However, the defence was not ready to proceed with the accused’s evidence at that stage due to repeated difficulties arranging consultations with Correctional Services.
He said five consultation trips between October and January were cancelled or blocked because prison authorities did not confirm appointments. After sending a formal letter to Correctional Services, consultation was finally secured on January 14. Since then, he has met with the accused several times.
Bouwer also confirmed that while the defence had initially indicated it might call a psychologist, instructions were later received not to proceed with an additional expert. The only remaining defence witness is the accused herself.
State provides all available reports
State Advocate Rolene Barnard said the State had already submitted all expert reports in its possession, including the report from Mr Luke Lamprecht. She confirmed that a panel member would give evidence regarding exhibits already before the court.
Barnard also noted that the judgement had been given on August 28, but the defence only began consulting with the accused on January 14. She said the State was not opposing the postponement but emphasised that the delays were caused by the accused.
The defence reiterated its difficulties in securing consultation dates with Correctional Services.
The judge said it was unfortunate that the defence could not continue with its mitigation factors, but stressed that in the interest of justice, the case must be finalised.
Proceedings will continue tomorrow.
Previous articles:
- Preschool teacher trial: Court expected to sentence Amber Lee Hughes today
- Child murderer and rapist Ambler Lee Hughes had troubled upbringing
- Just in: Amber-Lee Hughes found builty of murder and rape
- Rape, murder of Joburg toddler: Amber Lee Hughes admits to drowning Nada-Jane
- Preschool teacher trial: Rape, murder of 4-year-old: Accused claims child's death was a 'tragic accident'
- Preschool teacher trial: Frustration grows as raped, murdered Joburg toddler's trial faces 3rd postponement
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