Convicted teachers await sentencing for rape

The sentencing of two Ikageng teachers found guilty of rape, which was supposed to have taken place in the Potchefstroom regional court on Wednesday has been postponed to 27 July. This after the cousins, who were found guilty last Friday, introduced a new defence attorney to the case.
The new legal counsel informed the court that he had been briefed on the matter and had had discussions with their previous attorney. Unfortunately, he said, he only got the brief on Tuesday to prepare for the following day’s proceedings. The attorney also asked for a pre-sentence report and a transcript of the proceedings, which will take six weeks. He asked that the two remain on bail and the state did not oppose the request.
The two first appeared on 19 October last year and were each granted bail of R1000. According to the statement given to the police by the 27-year-old complainant at the time, she was dating one of the accused and went out for drinks with them (her boyfriend and his cousin). While the accused then admitted that alcohol had been consumed, it had been done in moderation, she said. The three of them then went home for a few more drinks.
The woman believes she blacked out and does not know what happened thereafter. She says she woke up with her boyfriend’s cousin on top of her and her naked boyfriend lying next to them. The boyfriend later alleged that it was he who was having sexual intercourse with the complainant, a claim that she categorically denies. She immediately went to the police station and laid a charge of rape. Both suspects were arrested.