The State vs. Kelly Smith, Jacquin “Boeta” Appollis & Others
Cape Coast Reporting Team
Pictures from Social and Pressed media
Date Opened:- Mid-2024
Current Status:- Ongoing – Postponed to 27 May 2025
Presiding Judge:- Judge Erasmus
Jurisdiction:- Cape Town and Saldanha High Courts
Key Allegations:
Accused are facing serious criminal charges (details withheld due to legal constraints).
The case has drawn national attention due to its sensitive nature, multiple accused, and now, international witnesses.
A witness from the United States is expected to testify remotely via video link in the upcoming session.
Past Issues & Delays:
Multiple delays have occurred, often attributed to logistical failures by local authorities.
SAPS performance has come under fire, with Today’s, Friday’s, May 16th 2025, late arrival being the latest in a pattern of procedural missteps.
Judge Erasmus has issued stern warnings and demanded formal accountability.
Public Reaction:
- Local residents and activists have expressed growing frustration at the slow pace of justice.
- The courtroom has seen packed galleries, with people eager to see how the case unfolds.
- Observers have commented on the apparent emotional and physical toll the trial is taking on the accused.
TIMELINE OF KEY EVENTS
Tap or hover over each date on our site to view details and court documents (online interactive version)
| Date | Event |
| 12 Aug 2024 | Initial arrest of Kelly Smith, mother of Joshlin, along with Jacquin “Boeta” Appollis and co-accused. |
| 22 Sep 2024 | First court appearance – charges formally laid |
| 19 Nov 2024 | Hearing postponed due to witness unavailability |
| 27 Jan 2025 | Judge Erasmus appointed; stricter court protocols introduced |
| 22 May 2025 | SAPS delay causes court outrage; case postponed again |
| 27 May 2025 | Next scheduled court date; U.S. witness to testify via video link |
