The Department of Correctional Services has reversed the parole decision for Marius van der Westhuizen, who was convicted of murdering his three minor children.
Story Summary:
- Marius van der Westhuizen’s parole was revoked after a review by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board.
- He had been convicted of murdering his three children and was initially granted parole after serving 13 years of his sentence.
- The decision to reverse the parole has been welcomed by the Department of Correctional Services, citing the need for reforms in the parole system.
Parole board reveals reasons behind the reversal
Van der Westhuizen was initially granted parole after serving 13 years of his 24-year sentence, but this decision has now been overturned following a review by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board.
The Department of Correctional Services released a statement explaining that the reversal of van der Westhuizen’s parole was due to the severity of his crimes and the need to uphold justice for the victims.
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The decision came after public concern and legal scrutiny, with the Correctional Supervision and Parole Review Board deciding that van der Westhuizen should remain incarcerated for the full duration of his sentence.
The department emphasised that the participation of victims in the parole process is crucial, but noted that financial barriers often prevent this.
Minister of Correctional Services Dr Pieter Groenewald highlighted the moral imperative of reforming the parole system to protect society’s most vulnerable members.
“Reforming our parole system is not just a policy issue, but a moral imperative. Although victims of crime are allowed to participate in the parole process, financial exclusion is a deterring factor. We are committed to review and reform our parole system to protect the most vulnerable of our society,” Groenewald said.
The horrible crimes that Marius van der Westhuizen committed
Marius van der Westhuizen was convicted of the brutal murder of his three children, Bianca, Marius Eben, and Antoinette, on 28 July 2006.
According to the Supreme Court judgment, van der Westhuizen shot each of his children in the head with a Z88 pistol at their home in Brackenfell, Cape Town.
The court found that the murders were premeditated and executed with a level of cruelty that shocked the community.
During the trial, van der Westhuizen claimed to be suffering from severe depression and alleged memory loss surrounding the events.
However, the court determined that these factors did not mitigate his responsibility for the crimes.
The methodical manner in which the murders were carried out demonstrated a deliberate intent, and the court emphasised the need for a sentence that reflected the gravity of the offences.
Van der Westhuizen will now continue to serve his full 24-year sentence, ensuring that justice is upheld for the victims and their families.
