The Randburg Magistrates’ Court has sentenced Preshalin Naidoo to 10 years imprisonment after being found guilty on two counts of culpable homicide.
Naidoo is the man who was driving the car that caused the crash in which TV presenter Simba Mhere and his friend Kady-Shay O’Bryan died.
The accident occurred in the early hours of 31 January 2015 on William Nicol Drive in Fourways.
In handing down the sentence, Magistrate David Mahongo said the aggravating factors in this case far outweighed the mitigation.
Mahongo said Naidoo was driving recklessly when he caused the accident that claimed the lives of two persons.
Naidoo will spend his first night in prison today (18 June) while he waits for the state to respond to his application for leave appeal his sentence and conviction to be done on 19 June. His legal representative filed the application immediately after he was sentenced.
As Mahongo passed the sentence, Naidoo’s mother who was seated in the public gallery, broke down and cried.
For the families of the deceased, justice was served, although it was a long journey that took three years. Simba’s father, Joseph said he was satisfied with the sentence imposed.
“I hope this will send a strong message to all road users and discourage them from reckless driving behaviour,” said Joseph.
Duane O’Bryan, Kady’s brother, said he was also pleased with the sentence and hoped that Naidoo will be unsuccessful with his appeal.
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