Joshlin Smith Sentencing: Trio Gets Life Imprisonment For Kidnapping And Human Trafficking

Justice was delivered in the Western Cape High Court on Thursday as Jacquen ‘Boeta’ Appollis, Steveno van Rhyn, and Kelly Smith were each sentenced to life imprisonment for their roles in the kidnapping and human trafficking of young Joshlin Smith.

Judge Nathan Erasmus, who presided over the high-profile case, made it clear that the severity of their crimes left no room for leniency.

“This court cannot find any mitigating factors,” Judge Erasmus said. He emphasised the trio’s total lack of remorse, specifically calling out Kelly Smith: “Ms Smith, we know from February 19, 2024, there has been a lack of concern. But, besides some tears yesterday, you have not shown an indication of remorse.”

Premeditation, Substance Use and a Shocking Lack of Remorse

During the sentence, the court acknowledged that substance use played a role in the trio’s decision-making at the time of the crime. However, Judge Erasmus dismissed it as an excuse for their deliberate and calculated actions.

“You had enough time to speak and come clean,” he said sternly, referencing the months of silence and evasion that followed Joshlin’s disappearance. The prosecution had argued—and the court agreed—that the crimes were premeditated and executed with chilling disregard for Joshlin’s safety and humanity.

Each of the accused was also handed an additional 10-year sentence for their roles in the kidnapping. However, these will run concurrently with their life sentences.

Names Added to Child Protection Register Amid National Outcry

In a crucial ruling aimed at child safety, Judge Erasmus approved the prosecution’s request to have the names of Appollis, van Rhyn, and Smith added to Part B of the National Child Protection Register (CPR). This legal step bars them from working with or being in positions of care over minors—an effort to safeguard other children from harm.

The register, managed by the Western Cape Government under the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, is a vital tool in tracking and preventing abuse. Part A logs reported cases, while Part B identifies individuals unfit to be near children.

As the nation reflects on the heartbreaking case of Joshlin Smith, many hope the court’s firm stance will serve as a powerful deterrent against human trafficking and child exploitation. The life sentences mark a significant legal moment in South Africa’s fight to protect its most vulnerable citizens.

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram