Shongweni jockey found guilty of murdering Janet Scott

FAMILY and friends of slain Shongweni woman, Janet Scott were relieved after a guilty verdict was handed down to former jockey Graham Gregorowski, who had been charged with her murder. 

The public gallery at the Durban High Court was fuller than usual when Judge Shyam Gyanda handed down the verdict. 

UPDATE: Life sentence given to former Shongweni jockey for the murder of Janet Scott

Along with family and friends of Scott the proceeding was also attended by Gregorowski’s mother and girlfriend. 

ALSO READ: Closing arguments end week’s proceedings at Shongweni jockey murder trial

Following the judgement there was a short adjournment after which time Gregorowski’s defence counsel, Adv Marshall Zulu presented evidence in mitigation.

“My lord the accused did show some signs of remorse as witnesses who saw him on the morning reported, and when he contacted his mother, he called it an accident meaning he didn’t mean to kill her.”

“The accused must be given a chance to look after his two minor children as well as the third one which is soon to be born. If he were to go to jail for a long time there will be no chance of him supporting them,” said Adv Zulu.

ALSO READ: Jockey murder trial: Gregorwski confirms drug use on the night before girlfriend’s death

“It is my humble opinion that the circumstances of the accused should be given a lesser sentence than that the law prescribes,” added Adv Zulu.

He also pleaded with the court to allow Gregorowski a chance to be rehabilitated.

“If he is sent to jail for a long time he might come out being a hardened criminal,” said Adv Zulu

The court is still in session with the State advocate Krishen Shah presenting evidence in aggravation of the sentencing. 

He has indicated he will be presenting victim statements from both Scott’s brother, and her daughter.

The case continues.

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