South African Woman Sentenced to Life for Selling Daughter
Racquel Smith receives life sentence for selling her 6-year-old daughter, Joshlin, who remains missing.
Overview
Racquel 'Kelly' Smith was sentenced to life in prison for selling her daughter, Joshlin, who went missing in February 2024. Alongside her boyfriend and a friend, Smith was convicted of human trafficking and kidnapping. The case drew national attention, initially portraying Smith as a victim until evidence revealed her involvement in the sale of her daughter for approximately $1,100. The judge emphasized the severity of the crime, noting the lack of remorse from Smith. The search for Joshlin continues, with police extending efforts beyond South Africa's borders amid rising child kidnappings in the country.
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Analysis
- A South African woman received a life sentence for selling her young daughter, highlighting severe human trafficking issues.
- The articles evoke horror and sadness, emphasizing the tragic consequences of such crimes on children and families.
- Public outrage is evident, reflecting a societal demand for justice and accountability in cases of child exploitation.
Articles (3)
Center (2)
"…The case drew national attention, including from a minister who offered a one-million-rand ($54,000) reward for her safe return."
CBS News·1M·"…Smith’s daughter, Joshlin, went missing in February 2024 when she was 6, sparking a nationwide hunt by police in South Africa."
Associated Press·1M·FAQ
Racquel Smith, alongside her boyfriend and a friend, was convicted of human trafficking and kidnapping in connection with the sale of her daughter Joshlin.
Racquel Smith and her accomplices were sentenced to life imprisonment for their crimes involving the kidnapping and human trafficking of Joshlin Smith.
Joshlin Smith remains missing, and police have extended their search efforts beyond South Africa's borders amid a rise in child kidnapping cases in the country.
Initially, Racquel Smith was portrayed as a victim in the case, but later evidence revealed her active involvement in selling her daughter, which shifted public perception to that of a perpetrator.
The judge highlighted the severity of the crime, particularly noting Racquel Smith's lack of remorse for selling her daughter, underscoring the gravity of the offense.
History
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