Alberton truck driver case postponed

Prosecutor John Ntuli asked Magistrate Samuel Hlubi to postpone the case because Isaac Wade Maruding wanted to appoint a new attorney.

 

Maruding was arrested on October 15 after his truck allegedly caused an accident involving about 48 vehicles in early morning traffic on October 14 on the N12 East in Alberton on the East Rand. Three people were killed.

 

The married father of two young children faces three charges of culpable homicide, and another of reckless or negligent driving.

 

Hlubi told Maruding of his rights to either appoint a private attorney, apply for legal aid, or conduct his own defence.

 

"It is the court's duty to encourage you to get an attorney because the charges you face are very serious," he said.

 

Through a translator, Maruding said he would appoint a private attorney and expected to be ready for court again in a month or two.

 

Ntuli suggested the matter be postponed for Maruding to appoint his attorney and for a regional court date to be set because the severity of the case warranted a higher court.

 

Hlubi postponed the case to January 23.

 

Maruding, who wore jeans and a black tracksuit top, would remain out on bail.

 

He was granted R7000 bail at his last appearance on October 27.

 

Maruding has indicated that he intends to plead not guilty to the three culpable homicide charges against him.

 

He claimed the accident occurred after the brakes on his vehicle failed.

 

The court heard previously that Maruding was convicted of culpable homicide 17 years ago and spent 18 months in prison. He also previously faced charges of reckless or negligent driving.