'Sheldean initiated contact'

2008-06-06 14:08

Johannesburg - Two life sentences were an appropriate punishment for convicted murderer Andrew Jordaan, the Pretoria High Court heard on Friday.

In his final argument before the court, state prosecutor Andre Fourie asked it to hand down two life imprisonment sentences to Jordaan for the murder of seven-year-old Sheldean Human and the rape of her friend.

Fourie said Jordaan had acted in a premeditated manner in Human's killing and as a result he should be held responsible for his actions.

Referring to Sheldean as a "soft target", a heavy sentence was necessary, said Fourie.

Meanwhile, the defence argued that Jordaan could be rehabilitated as he was a first time offender.

The defence also argued that Sheldean initiated contact with the accused by telling him that she did not get food or love from her own family.

This, however, was dismissed by the court which earlier had referred to Jordaan as a blatant liar.

Sentencing is expected on Monday.

- SAPA