Hitch in sentencing of model boss for rape and porn

Pre-sentencing proceedings in the case of Kempton Park model agency boss Dawie de Villiers, who has been found guilty of rape and other serious charges, were again postponed yesterday in the High Court in Johannesburg.

During proceedings, defence advocate Riaan Greyling told Judge Cassim Moosa that the social worker involved in the case had been diagnosed with breast cancer and had appointed private legal representatives who would only be available in February.

The founder of Modelling South Africa (Pty) was found guilty of rape, sexual assault, sexual grooming, fraud, exposing children to pornography and access to child pornography in February, but his sentencing has been delayed for various reasons.

Greyling said the social worker would be having surgery on October 16 and would only be available from January next year. State prosecutor Arveena Persad opposed a lengthy postponement, saying it was not “proper procedure”. The new private legal representatives were not present in court. A representative from LP Baartman Attorneys told Judge Moosa the counsel dealing with the matter was “busy with another case” and would only be available next year.

Persad argued that dragging the matter on would not provide justice to De Villiers’ victims.

The accused is out on bail, despite being found guilty of rape which could result in him being sentenced to life imprisonment.

“It’s not our fault that we didn’t get transcripts when I came on board,” Greyling said.

“He [De Villiers] feels he will be prejudiced if a probation officer from the state deals with the matter.”

The matter will be back in court on October 23. – ANA