However, before the commencement of the trial, the prosecution dropped the unlawful wounding charge, leaving the accused facing a single count of murder. The particulars of the case are that on or about September 29, 2012, at or near Mapatse cattlepost in the Central Administrative Authority, Jackson murdered Benedicto.
At the commencement of the trial, the common cause is that the evidence was that Jackson had stabbed the deceased with a knife during a fight believed to have been fuelled by a love triangle. Jackson did not deny that he stabbed the deceased but said he did so in self-defence. Justice Phadi Solomon found Jackson guilty of a single count of murder. The judge found extenuating circumstances in that the accused had been drinking alcohol and that there were issues of jealousy. State witness, Galefele Rennetse also known as Pununu during cross-examination, admitted that she had a romantic relationship with both Jackson and Benedicto. Solomon said it was apparent Jackson’s actions were motivated by jealousy. She said although Jackson has one previous conviction of bodily harm in 1997, the state had considered that since the new offence was committed 15 years later, the accused person can be treated as a first offender. Solomon said Jackson was cooperative with the police and abided by his bail conditions.
