As the Joshlin Smith trial enters Day 34, the focus will shift to the final phase of the proceedings: closing arguments.
What to expect from the Joshlin Smith trial on Day 34
After weeks of witness testimonies, cross-examinations, and legal debates, all parties are now preparing to deliver their final addresses before the court.
The defence has officially closed its case. None of the accused — Jacquen Appollis, Steveno van Rhyn, or Kelly Smith — elected to testify or call witnesses. This decision came after Judge Nathan Erasmus refused their respective Section 174 applications, which sought to have the charges dismissed for lack of evidence.
The judge ruled that there was sufficient evidence on record that could reasonably lead to a conviction, meaning the trial would proceed.
The State was ordered to submit their heads of argument by Monday, 28 April 2025, allowing the defence an opportunity to respond. Full oral closing arguments are expected to begin on Tuesday, 29 April 2025.
The court anticipates a packed session as the prosecution and defence teams summarise their cases, attempt to dismantle the opposing side’s arguments, and persuade the court one last time before a judgment is handed down.
Judge Erasmus indicated that he expects all closing arguments to conclude by Wednesday, 30 April 2025. Judgment is scheduled for Friday, 2 May 2025.
Readers can follow the live trial coverage today as the courtroom battle intensifies.
Recap of Day 33: Key testimonies and new revelations
Day 33 of the trial saw several developments that set the tone for this closing stretch. Lieutenant Colonel Morris testified regarding the analysis of video evidence, including footage of Kelly Smith dancing at a community event, participating in prayer sessions, and taking part in TikTok interviews.
Sergeant Sangcozi briefly took the stand to discuss warning statements taken from Phumza Sigaqa, but his evidence was curtailed after it was revealed that Phumza had withdrawn as a state witness.
A significant part of the day involved defence lawyers for Steveno van Rhyn and Kelly Smith applying for the court to dismiss charges under Section 174, arguing that the State had not proved their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Both applications were rejected.
Following the dismissal of the applications, the defence teams for all three accused closed their cases without leading further evidence or calling any witnesses.
The trial now moves to its final stage, with closing arguments set to dominate the next two days of proceedings.
