ORLANDO Pirates player Thembinkosi Lorch's assault case was delayed on Monday, 9 October as the judge wanted to thoroughly look into the matter between the soccer star and the victim.
The 30-year-old appeared in the Randburg Magistrates Court on Monday and the matter was postponed to 21 November 2023 as the judge wants to read the matter presented by both representatives during his judgement.
On 6 June 2023, the soccer star was found guilty of assaulting his then-girlfriend Fundiswa Nokuphiwa Mathithibala. He was found guilty of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Lorch's case relates to a complaint laid at the Midrand Police Station in September 2020. He was released on R2 000 bail in September.
Representing Lorch, S de Kock of De Kock Attorneys said he wished they could offer him another chance as he regrets everything and appears to be remorseful.
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"My client is seeking for a lighter judgment as he realised that he was wrong. He is appealing with the court to allow him to be free as he is a first-time offender," he said.
He said the soccer star is also attending therapy sessions to become better, adding that will also give him an opportunity to give back to communities like he always did.
De Kock said that Lorch has two kids to support and siblings to look after.
State prosecutor Michelle Hart said the accused had time to handle this matter differently.
She said this has to serve as a lesson to other people who abuse others daily.
"Gender-based violence needs to be eradicated in our communities. He knew he was popular and could have done better," she said.
