Teen dog beheader cleared after finishing courses 19 Dec 2007
Sapa
The Natal Witness
Charges of cruelty to animals and of being in possession of dagga were
yesterday withdrawn in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court against a
teenager who earlier this year cut off a dog’s head.
This was after Jacques Wensel (1 8 ) of Pretoria West successfully completed a diversion programme.
The aim of such a programme is to direct accused, especially young
offenders, away from the criminal justice system. Such a person must
admit his crime and acknowledge that it is wrong. He must then attend
several courses and programmes. If a person completes these programmes
successfully, charges are withdrawn and he has no criminal record.
Wensel beheaded his grandmother’s chihuahua on April 13.
A few days later, he posted the head to a person who he alleged had been rude to his mother.
When Postnet staff received the parcel, they became suspicious and
opened it. Upon discovery of the contents, they contacted the Tshwane
SPCA.
The following day, Wensel confessed and was arrested. He was granted bail of R2 000.
His diversion programme included 150 hours of community service.
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