Day 38 of the Joshlin Smith trial is expected to be another procedural appearance rather than a session involving witness testimony or new evidence.
What to expect from the Joshlin Smith trial on Day 38
Following Judge Nathan Erasmus’s confirmation on Day 37, this phase is focused on ensuring logistical readiness ahead of the sentencing process.
The court will aim to confirm arrangements for the transfer of the trial back to the Multipurpose Centre in Saldanha Bay. If all proceeds according to plan, this will set the stage for three consecutive court dates in Saldanha, where critical elements of the sentencing procedure will unfold.
These include the presentation of victim impact statements by social workers and expert testimony on human trafficking, both of which are expected to influence the judge’s final decision.
The judge has asked the defence teams to prepare detailed social worker reports on the personal circumstances of the accused. Although these reports usually require six weeks, the court has ordered their expedited completion to meet the tight scheduling deadlines.
All three accused—Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis, and Steveno van Rhyn—will remain in custody at Pollsmoor Prison until 23 May 2025. From there, they are expected to be moved to correctional facilities closer to the Saldanha venue before sentencing proceedings resume.
Readers can follow the live trial coverage below:
Recap of Day 37: Key testimonies and new revelations
The courtroom on Day 37 was not a site for testimony or cross-examinations. Instead, it served as a “holding date” to confirm the trial’s next logistical steps. Judge Erasmus made it clear that the purpose of the session was administrative, focused on preparing for the final stretch of the legal process rather than delivering a verdict.
The judge emphasised the importance of the upcoming victim impact statements and expert evidence, which will be presented on 27 and 28 May. These are expected to be central to informing the court’s approach to sentencing.
He instructed both the prosecution and defence to ensure all necessary reports and documentation are prepared in advance.
Judge Erasmus also issued a direct appeal to the accused, asking them to provide complete information about their personal situations to assist the court in crafting an appropriate sentence.
His remarks indicated a careful approach to the sentencing phase, one that considers both the gravity of the charges and the circumstances of those found guilty.
Kelly Smith’s attorney indicated that she wished to raise an issue; however, it was agreed that the matter would be addressed outside the courtroom.
