Seaview hit-and-run driver sentenced
TWO years of turmoil for the family of a teenager killed in a hit-and-run accident came to an end this week when the driver was sentenced to correctional supervision and a fine of R4 000.
Ruben Botha, 27, smashed into Mpumelelo Apleni, 19, who had been walking along Seaview Road on May 11 2012.
Botha was driving towards Mount Pleasant at about 8pm when the accident occurred. Apleni and his friends had been walking in the opposite direction towards Bushy Park.
Botha, who initially thought he had hit an animal, fled the scene but handed himself over to police later that night. He said the stretch of road where the accident occurred was badly lit.
Apleni, a Walmer High School Grade 11 pupil, died from multiple organ injuries.
When the trial started in the Port Elizabeth District Court in August last year, Botha, represented by attorney James Riley, pleaded not guilty to a charge of culpable homicide.
He said he thought he was under attack when Apleni’s friends ran towards his vehicle, causing him to flee.
But in an about-turn just days later, Botha changed his plea and admitted guilt.
He made a public apology to Apleni’s family in court. They indicated they had forgiven Botha.
He also pleaded guilty to failing to stop at an accident scene, failing to assess Apleni’s injuries and failing to render assistance.
Sentencing was delayed for several months, but the trial finally came to an end on Wednesday.
Botha, a handyman from Lakeside Farm, was found to be extremely remorseful.
He was sentenced to two years’ correctional supervision coupled with house arrest and community service.
He was also ordered to pay a fine of R4 000.
Apleni’s family, who were at court for the sentencing, were satisfied with the outcome.