Court orders psychiatric evaluation for Van Druten, bail application withdrawn

The bail hearing took a dramatic turn this morning.

Update Video

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS & VIDEOS - The State’s application for Bevan van Druten (53), accused of murdering his girlfriend, Nicky van Heerden (54), to be sent for psychiatric evaluation was approved by the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court today, Friday 6 February.

The defence confirmed it did not oppose the evaluation, which will take place in Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital in Cape Town.

The defence also withdrew its bail application.

The court ordered the evaluation process to be expedited, and the results are to be presented at the next hearing on 6 March.

George Herald will continue to follow the case closely. Look out for a more detailed report of what transpired in the court proceedings today.

VIDEO: Bail hearing takes dramatic turn as Van Druten submits personal statement