Legal Update: Lorch Court Case Update Revealed
The sentencing of Orlando Pirates winger Thembinkosi Lorch was expected to take place at the Randburg Magistrates Court on Friday, but it has been postponed to 4th September.
Lorch, aged 30, had been found guilty of “assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm” and was anticipating the verdict on Friday.
However, due to the defence’s request for more time and the unavailability of electricity caused by load shedding, the sentencing has been delayed.
Background of the Case
Last month, the National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa announced that Thembinkosi Lorch had been found guilty of assaulting his former girlfriend, Fundiswa Nokuphiwa Mathithibala.
The incident occurred in September 2020 at Lorch’s residence in Midrand. Mathithibala, visiting Lorch, had requested her car keys when he left with his friend.
An argument escalated, leading to Lorch becoming violent, strangling her, and physically assaulting her. Mathithibala sought help, and Lorch’s friend intervened to rescue her.
Thembinkosi Lorch exits the court, after his sentencing was postponed.
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The Case’s Developments
The Randburg Magistrates Court’s postponement of the sentencing occurred due to the defense’s request for more time to present pre-sentencing arguments.
Additionally, load shedding caused the unavailability of electricity, contributing to the delay.
Pirates’ Response and Consequences
Upon the National Prosecuting Authority’s announcement, Orlando Pirates conducted their own investigation and charged Lorch with serious misconduct.
He pleaded guilty to the charges and was penalized with a monetary fine and ordered to undergo anger management therapy.
Lorch complied with the therapy and has not been involved in any similar incidents since, proving the effectiveness of the corrective measure.
Current Status
Orlando Pirates has not provided further updates following the latest ruling by the Randburg Magistrates Court.
They have requested details from Lorch regarding his conviction and sentencing, and the situation remains under review.