Charges of cruelty to animals and of being in possession of dagga were on Tuesday withdrawn in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court against a teenager who earlier this year cut off a dog’s head.
The court heard that Jacques Wensel (18) of Pretoria West, had successfully completed a diversion programme.
The aim of the programme is to direct the accused, especially young offenders, away from the criminal justice system. The accused must admit to the crime and acknowledge that it is wrong and then attend several courses and programmes.
If the accused completes the programme successfully, charges may be withdrawn.
Wensel beheaded his grandmother’s Chihuahua on April 13 2007.
A few days later he posted it to a person whom he alleged had been rude to his mother.
When Postnet staff at the Quagga Centre, west of Pretoria, received the parcel, they became suspicious and opened it. Upon discovery of the contents, they contacted Tshwane’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
The following day Wensel confessed and was arrested. He was granted bail of R2 000.
After being interviewed by a probation officer, he was placed in the diversion programme. This included 150 hours of community service.
On Tuesday the state prosecutor withdrew the charges against Wensel, saying he successfully completed the programme. – Sapa