Cornelius accused mitigation arguments

THESE are the arguments in mitigation of sentence that the four defence advocates presented for their clients. Father of two children. Challenging personal circumstances. Unemployed at the time of the murder. Under the influence of drugs. Father of three children. His father died in 2013. Only completed Grade 9. Gangsterism forced him to leave school.

He has “owned” up to the crime. The intake of drugs played a role in the crimes.

Sentences must run concurrently. Was in prison until April 2015 for petty crime. Currently serving a sentence for armed robbery which will end on November 25. Stopped school in Grade 5 – limited education.

Challenging personal circumstances.

Drugs were used at the time of the crimes.

There was no premeditation to commit murder. Father consumed alcohol. He stutters. Grew up quietly. Completed Grade 11. Made friends with the “wrong crowd” at school.

Challenging personal circumstances.

Consumed drugs on the night of the crimes.

Confessed to robbing Cheslin Marsh.

Did not harm Marsh.

First-time offender for robbery. Suitable character for rehabilitation.

Did not actively participate in the murder and rape.