Andrew Jordaan, the convicted killer of seven-year-old Sheldean Human, was described on Thursday both as a paedophile and someone too gentle to be a murderer.
Testifying in mitigation of Jordaan’s sentencing in the Pretoria High Court, clinical psychologist Wikus Coetzee told how several tests conducted on the 26-year-old portrayed a man who had sexual interest in young girls and was emotionally immature.
”He could be classified as a paedophile,” Coetzee told the court.
Elaborating on his findings, Coetzee told the court that Jordaan, who sat quietly in the dock, showed withdrawal symptoms, depression and a low intellectual ability.
Jordaan’s IQ of 76 was found to be lower than a normal person, which was on average between 90 and 110.
”He showed signs of low intellectual ability. For example he could not remember where he was born. In general he was very childlike … he laughed like a child,” continued Coetzee.
Jordaan had no adult friends and got on well with children. In addition, he had a ”strong underlying aggressive personality”, Coetzee said.
Jordaan was on Tuesday found guilty of the murder, attempted rape and kidnapping of Human last year.
He was also found guilty of raping and indecently assaulting her eight-year-old friend.
State prosecutor Andre Fourie said Jordaan needed lifelong imprisonment following his actions and Coetzee said Jordaan was a danger to society.
However, Jordaan’s father Nici who took the stand in the afternoon, told the court his son was innocent.
”He is not guilty. He is a soft person who loves children,” he said.
He told the court that two of his children — Andrew and his sister — were taken into foster care in the 1980’s. He said his son’s biological mother had a drinking problem.
His son had problems with his teachers at a special school before dropping out in standard seven. He had tried to establish what was the root of his son’s problems, but had not been given any reasons.
Acting Judge Chris Eksteen postponed the matter to Friday to allow both the state and defence time to wrap up their arguments.
Eksteen said the court would then also give an indication as to when Jordaan would be sentenced.
Jordaan — who remained in custody — was embraced by family members shortly before being led away. – Sapa