SA Rugby president condemns Milnerton High assault incident

President of SA Rugby has condemned the assault of a Milnerton High School learner by his peers.

Mark Alexander said he regrets that the incident has been linked to the sport, as one of the alleged perpetrators had previously represented South Africa in school rugby.

ALSO READ:

- Criminal defence lawyer: Milnerton High assault may lead to harsh sentences for accused pupils

- Milnerton High assault: 8 accused forced to hand over phones in court

- Mother of Milnerton High pupil filmed being assaulted demands justice for her son

He added that the conduct displayed in the clip would never be condoned in a rugby environment.

The eight schoolboys face eight counts of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm. 

Criminal defence lawyer William Booth explained that the charge was in line with conduct of the boys.

"It's all about what injuries are caused and how persistent the assault is to fall within in the bracket of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and that can even potentially be upgraded to attempted murder."

He explained the possible sentence they face, if found guilty: "Potentially, you could be sentenced to direct imprisonment but let's say, in general, and depending on, obviously, how serious the assault is, a court must look at the factors of the accused, look at how serious the incident is and look at what a society wants with regard to sentencing and balance that all."

Article by Camray Clarke.