Racquel “Kelly” Smith received a life sentence for trafficking her six-year-old daughter, Joshlin, alongside accomplices Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn. The trio were also given concurrent 10-year sentences for kidnapping, despite Joshlin remaining missing. Evidence revealed Smith sold Joshlin to a traditional healer for 20,000 rand, citing the child’s desirable features. Judge Nathan Erasmus cited a lack of remorse from the defendants and the severity of the crime in imposing the maximum sentence.
Read More
Eleven Westhill High School lacrosse players surrendered to authorities following an alleged hazing incident involving at least five younger teammates. One victim was reportedly abducted, bound, and threatened with weapons in a remote wooded area. District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick offered a 48-hour window for self-surrender to avoid felony kidnapping charges, resulting in all eleven receiving appearance tickets for unlawful imprisonment. The remaining lacrosse season has been canceled as the district addresses the incident’s impact on the school community.
Read More
Responding to a child’s report of a “monster” under the bed, a babysitter discovered a man hiding there. A struggle ensued, resulting in a child being knocked over before the suspect fled. The suspect, a 27-year-old with a prior connection to the residence and a protection order against him, was apprehended the following morning after a brief chase. He faces charges including aggravated kidnapping.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker