#CoffinAssault sentencing: KZN and Damon Beard speak out
Two Mpumalanga men made headlines when they assaulted, kidnapped, and threw a man into a coffin. Now that the sentencing for their case is over, many East Coasters have spoken about their thoughts on the sentences handed down to them.
Listen as KZN and Damon react to the #CoffinAssault sentencing in the podcast, then read more below:
#CoffinAssault was trending for almost the entire week nationally and many were waiting for the verdict to find out exactly what was going to happen to the two men from Mpumalanga who filmed a man being forced into a coffin. The two men even threatened to set it on fire during the incident.
Read: Coffin assault duo sentenced to more than 10 years each
Although the two men did commit a crime, some people believe the sentences handed down were too harsh because no one died in the attack. Others are saying the sentence is very appropriate and sends a clear message that acts of racism or discrimination will not be tolerated in South Africa.
According to our Newswatch team, Willem Oosthuizen and Theo Jackson were sentenced to 11 and 14 years behind bars respectively for the crime committed and many took to social media to share their views on the judge's verdict.
Also read: Sentencing of coffin assault duo welcomed
15 years so that can all can learn that this will not be tolerated. It has to come to an end.
— Blaque Ayanda (@sitholeayanda5) October 27, 2017
It’s not just about what they did. It’s about how it will affect the victim for the rest of his life. They deserve more💪🏾
— K.R.E.A.M.Z (@KrmzMr) October 27, 2017
Anyone who would plan to video shoving someone in a coffin and setting them alight to show his children, deserves removal from society.
— Judy Stevens (@JudeStevens) October 27, 2017
If this verdict is not a clear message to all SAns that racism MUST stop, then am afraid we are doomed as a nation.
— I AM WHAT I AM (@hills007) October 27, 2017
What are your thoughts? Do you think the sentences of 11 and 14 years are justified for the crime committed?