Plettenberg Bay murder case: Bail hearing postponed again for Garden Route artist accused of killing partner

The state once again requested that the accused be sent for psychiatric evaluation, following a request and an affidavit submitted by the district surgeon.

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GARDEN ROUTE NEWS AND VIDEOS - The Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court was the focus of attention today as Garden Route artist, Bevan van Druten (53), appeared in court for his bail hearing in connection with the murder of his girlfriend, Nicky van Heerden (54).

Van Druten was dressed in a blue shirt and black trousers, with his hair worn loose and his beard tied in a bun. He was represented by Legal Aid attorney, Mr C Mfuduka.

Several media houses, including George Herald, applied to video and photograph the proceedings. The application was approved by Magistrate Stephan Lourens, who said permission was granted in the interest of justice.

The state once again requested that the accused be sent for psychiatric evaluation, following a request and an affidavit submitted by the district surgeon.

The defence asked for time to consult with Van Druten before the court made a determination on the state’s request for evaluation. The defence also requested additional time to prepare for the bail application.

The bail hearing was postponed to Friday 6 February. Van Druten remains in custody pending the consideration of his bail application.

VIDEO: Marguerite van Ginkel speaks outside the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court

VIDEO: Marguerite speaks to Zan, a prior business partner of van Druten