The Western Cape High Court has imposed life sentences on the three convicted human traffickers of Joshlin Smith.

Judge Nathan Erasmus took just over an hour to hand down his sentence in Saldahna Bay.

In addition to the life sentences for human trafficking, Erasmus also handed the trio 10 years on the kidnapping charge. The sentences will run concurrently.

Erasmus had harsh words for Kelly Smith, Jacquen Appollis and Steveno van Rhyn, saying they have not shown any remorse.

During sentencing, the Judge addressed all three accused, finding that in all their circumstances, he could find no mitigating circumstances which would cause him to veer away from the harshest possible sentence.

Erasmus says Appollis, who was a father figure to Joshlin, betrayed that trust and did not show any concern about the disappearance of the little girl. He also stated that Appollis persisted in twisting the truth throughout the trial.

Regarding Steveno van Rhyn, Erasmus described him as a menace to society who has had multiple brushes with the law, including robbery and housebreaking. Erasmus says van Rhyn was given an opportunity through correctional supervision to change his ways, but he failed to be rehabilitated.

Erasmus was also scathing towards Kelly Smith. He accepted the victim impact statements presented during sentencing arguments, and especially highlighted the impact statement of Kelly’s mother, Amanda Smith-Daniels, who described her daughter as heartless.

The Judge said from probation officer Errol Pieterson’s thorough report, and the impact statement, it was clear that Kelly is a person who is manipulative, and manipulates facts as it suits her.

“You went as far as to blame your parents for your conduct in this matter.”

He emphasized that from all the evidence presented to the court, both during the search for Joshlin and the trial, there has been no indication of remorse.

Erasmus said Kelly displayed a distinct lack of concern after her daughter disappeared on 19 February 2024.

The Judge praised Pieterson’s reports on all three of the accused, and also took one other positive from the trial.

“What I saw, having had the opportunity to serve in this case in this place, is how disciplined the community can be…How united they can be in the defence of the dignity of the community.”

Smith, Appollis and van Rhyn stood emotionless as Erasmus read out his judgement.

The three convicts have indicated they will appeal the sentence, which will be heard at a later stage.