Court hears of Werner De Jager’s mental health struggles

The local magistrate’s court heard arguments in Werner de Jager’s bail application on Wednesday.

His pastor wife, Liezel, was found strangled at their home three years ago.

The court previously heard Werner took out life policies two months before his wife's death and later tried to claim.

State prosecutor Gayle Greyling presented the affidavit from the investigating officer and a statement from Pastor Liezel’s family.

She argued bail should not be entertained as De Jager has no permanent residence, accommodation, or job. 

The court has also heard that De Jager is unable to manage his mental health and has repeatedly tried to take his own life.

It’s emerged he’s been diagnosed with bipolar and has had multiple stints in mental health facilities over the years. 

According to Pastor Liezel’s family’s statement, this makes him unfit to take care of his two young children. 

As he began his arguments, defence lawyer Andre May told the court there was no premeditation on his client’s part and, therefore, the premeditated murder charge should not stand.

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He said the life insurance policies in question were taken out years prior to his wife’s killing and that changes to the will were of the victim’s accord.

May argued the State’s claim a policy was taken out two months before the murder is unsupported.

The court also heard De Jager’s mental health is well-managed and stable.