Picture: for illustration purposes
In a case that has sent shockwaves across the Western Cape, ex-police officer Richard Smit has been condemned to a lifetime behind bars for the premeditated murder of his girlfriend, Natasha Booise. Smit was handed this sentence in the Western Cape High Court on Thursday.
In addition to the crime of premeditated murder, Smit was taken to task for common assault, attempted murder, drunk driving, handling a firearm in an intoxicated state, and threatening with a firearm. While he pleaded guilty to all counts, he contested the charge of premeditated murder.
Despite Smit's denial, the court appointed State Advocate Rene Uys established definite evidence of premeditation in merely two days. According to Eric Ntabazalila, a spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Smit's actions prior to the murder painted a grim picture of intent.
Evidence provided painted a picture of him incessantly reaching out to Booise, seemingly hunting her down. On the day of the incident, Smit found Booise in Piketberg's Main Road. Despite her refusal to accompany him, Smit shot her seven times, three of which resulted in her instant death in the presence of her young son.
Judge Andre Le Grange supplemented Smit's lifelong sentence with additional penalties, including three years for common assault, 10 years for the attempted murder of Booise's cousin, and further sanctions relating to his offences involving driving and firearms. Smit has also been marked unfit to handle firearms.
The sentence was commended by Advocate Nicolette Bell, Director of Public Prosecutions, who expressed hope that the severe punishment would provide some comfort to the grieving family of the deceased.