Incomplete victim consultations delay Milnerton High assault case

The case against eight Milnerton High School learners charged with assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm has been postponed to March 11 due to outstanding evidence and consultations with victims. 

Six of the eight accused appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, while the remaining two, both minors, appeared separately. All legal representatives for the accused were present during the proceedings.

Most of the six boys who appeared in court are matriculants this year. Accused number four is currently suspended from Milnerton High School following a recommendation by the school governing body that he be expelled.

"The victims needed time to prepare for and complete their exams," the State prosecutor said.

The prosecutor added that there are further issues with evidence still outstanding.

"Another outstanding issue is the downloading of photographs that still needs to be done," he said.

He further clarified that consultations with some of the victims are scheduled for January  27, and confirmed that the case involves more than two victims.

Addressing the court, the State prosecutor added that the matter could not proceed because consultations with the victims had not yet been finalised.

"The investigations are still ongoing because consultations with the victims still have to take place." 

When the magistrate questioned why these consultations had not already been completed, the State explained that academic exam preparations had delayed the process.

The case drew widespread public attention last year after a video of the assault of a child who had recently undergone chemotherapy, went viral on social media.

The magistrate granted the State’s application for a postponement and extended the bail conditions of the six accused until the next court appearance.

Cape Times