What would your reaction be if the person who brutally attacked and stabbed you, called to apologise to get early parole? “I was dumbfounded,” said Winklespruit resident, André van Rensburg.
“A Pietermaritzburg correctional officer called me on 27 May, to say my attacker had been selected for the president’s early release and he wanted to speak to me. He came on the line and said he was sorry.
I went quiet and he asked me if I was still there. When I said I was, he said he won’t do it again and asked for my forgiveness. I didn’t know if he was serious or not. He gave the phone back to the parole officer, who asked if he had apologised. I said yes and they ended the call.
Carrying anger and hatred around with you is like drinking poison and hoping someone else will die. The reality is that people are being released. The selection is out of our control, but I want people to be aware that criminals are being released as part of the presidential pardon.
READ ALSO: Winklespruit resident stabbed in scuffle with burglar
My attack happened at about 4am. Have beams installed and dogs in place, so that you won’t be taken by surprise. Support and appreciate the efforts of the CCPO and joint security companies, who know what our town would be like without them.
Van Rensburg’s attacker is part of about 19 000 prisoners who are being considered for an early release by President Cyril Ramaphosa to help curb the spread of Covid-19 and reduce overcrowding.
Van Rensburg said he wasn’t called to court, but did try to follow the trial. He has not heard anything further from correctional services.
CCPO committee member, George Snodey initially thought Van Rensburg was joking when he informed him of the phone call and was outrage to learn the thug was being considered for an early release. “The only reason André is alive is because his attacker could only grab a bread knife. If it had been a steak knife, he wouldn’t be here today, because he was stabbed twice.”
According to Snodey, the correct procedure wasn’t followed, as felons are not allowed to make contact with their victims.
READ ALSO: Career Amanzimtoti housebreaker released from prison
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