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BETRAYAL OF THE WORST KIND: Mother Kelly Smith Gets Life Imprisonment for Kidnapping and Trafficking Her Own Daughter Joshlin Smith - AND STILL REFUSES TO REVEAL HER FATE

  • Mpho Dube
  • 19 hours ago
  • 2 min read

In a landmark judgment, the High Court in Saldanha Bay has handed down life sentences to Kelly Smith, the mother of missing girl Joshlin Smith, and her accomplices, Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, for the kidnapping and human trafficking of the child.


The sentencing proceedings, which took place in a packed White City multipurpose center, brought closure to the community and highlighted the severity of the crimes.


The case has shocked the community, with many expressing outrage and disappointment that Joshlin's own mother could betray her child's trust in such a heinous way. The court's decision reflects the gravity of Kelly Smith's betrayal and the devastating impact it has had on her daughter and the community. What's even more egregious is that despite being convicted and sentenced, the trio has refused to reveal the truth about Joshlin's whereabouts, leaving her family and loved ones in agonizing uncertainty.


Presiding Judge Nathan Erasmus imposed the maximum sentence, citing that he could find no mitigating factors to warrant a lesser sentence. Erasmus considered various factors before reaching his decision, including the severity of the crimes and the impact on the victim and her family. The judge's decision sends a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated in society.


The courtroom erupted in cheers and applause as the sentence was handed down, with Saldanha Bay residents showing their support for justice to be served. However, many also expressed outrage and frustration that the trio still refuses to disclose any information about Joshlin's fate.


In addition to the life sentences, Judge Erasmus granted an order for Smith, Appollis, and van Rhyn to be added to the national child protection register. This move ensures that the perpetrators will be barred from working with children and will be subject to ongoing monitoring.


Before handing down the sentence, Erasmus indicated that Smith, Appollis, and van Rhyn's attorneys would be given an opportunity to appeal the sentences at a later stage. This ensures that the accused have recourse to challenge the sentence if they believe it is unjust.


However, the question on everyone's mind remains: will they ever reveal the truth about Joshlin's disappearance? The life sentences handed down to Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn serve as a reminder that the justice system is committed to protecting the rights and safety of children. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and community involvement in preventing such crimes. But for Joshlin's family, the pain and uncertainty continue, as they demand answers about her fate.

The trio Kelly Smith, the mother of missing girl Joshlin Smith, and her accomplices, Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn handed down life sentences.




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