Retief Liebenberg (50), a Springs businessman, was found not guilty by judge Mohamed Ishmail on the two murder charges of 19-year-old Dewald “Poenie” Visser and his father Dewald Visser (46) on October 31, 2012 at his Benoni home.
According to Liebenberg’s private investigator Danie Day, the decision was made on Liebenberg’s plea of automatism.
This is an involuntary act that is performed in a state of unconsciousness, meaning he was not fully aware of his actions while in this state.
A very emotional Liebenberg spoke to the Addie after the judgment was handed down.
“I am very emotional but also extremely sorry for the family of the deceased for their loss,” he says.
He adds that the whole ordeal caused him and his family a lot of emotional and financial harm.
“This came across our path which changed our lives, but we keep our heads high and trust God,” says Liebenberg.
His R50 000 bail has been returned to him and he says he will donate it to a church in Boksburg.
Liebenberg is proud to admit that, through this difficult time, he stayed strong and positive.
He is eternally grateful to his wife Rozaan Liebenberg, children and family for their support throughout the trial.
About his future plans he says he has always helped people in the past and aims to continue doing so.
State prosecutor Phyllis Vorster, says she is yet to decide if the State will appeal the verdict.
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