McDonald’s murder-accused granted bail while victim’s family attend memorial service

[Jam Sandwich]

GEORGE NEWS - While the family of the 21-year-old Reinbrecht Piper mourned his death at his memorial service today, Thursday 1 October, the two men accused of his murder were granted bail in the George Magistrate’s Court.

Represented by private attorneys, Justin Jafta (28) and Craig Nelson (27) were each granted bail of R1 000 with strict conditions. Their next court appearance is scheduled for 3 December.

McDonald’s murder-accused granted bail while victim’s family attend memorial service

GEORGE NEWS - While the family of the...

www.georgeherald.com

 

[Jam Sandwich]

The courts also need some waking up here as well, R1000 bail for murder accused...
Thats crazy.

 

[ponder]

The courts also need some waking up here as well, R1000 bail for murder accused...
Thats crazy.

As long as they pay their tv license it's all good.

 

[ForceFate]

The courts also need some waking up here as well, R1000 bail for murder accused...
Thats crazy.

Their justification is that bail is not punishment, sentiment I wholly disagree with. Then there's presumption of innocence part.

 

[Jam Sandwich]

Their justification is that bail is not punishment, sentiment I wholly disagree with. Then there's presumption of innocence part.

Sure, I get being presumed innocent till proven guilty but to me R1000 bail in a murder charge is just peanuts.
Might as well not bother really.

 

[vigras rojara]

They are accused of a Section 6 offence, so the defence attorney would have to argue that there were exceptional circumstances which justified their release on bail.

For lesser offences, the prosecutor has to argue why they shouldn't be granted bail - no fixed address, repeat offenders etc.

The court clearly believes that there was minimal risk of flight or witness interference, so the actual bail amount is of lesser importance.

I agree it sounds a bit pathetic though.