NPA considering withdrawing attempted murder charge in Newlands baby case
The NPA says it is considering withdrawing the attempted murder charge against the Durban mother who allegedly dumped her newborn baby girl in a stormwater drain in Newlands East, north of Durban.
The infant was brought to the surface following a dramatic three-hour rescue operation in Baracuda Road in February.
She was found stuck some seven metres down the drainpipe.
The defence will push for correctional supervision.
The case returns to court in October.
She was found stuck some seven metres down the drainpipe.
The 32-year-old mother appeared briefly in Court B at the Ntuzuma Magistrate's Court again this morning.
NOW READ: Court eases bail conditions in Newlands baby case
Her attorney, Jacques Botha told the court that a plea agreement was almost concluded and that Correctional Services would be meeting with his client to compile a report.Botha said they want the attempted murder charge withdrawn and to have a charge of child abandonment added.
WATCH: Baby girl recovered following hours-long rescue
He told reporters outside court that negotiations are underway in terms of a plea and sentencing agreement.The defence will push for correctional supervision.
The case returns to court in October.
The mother is allowed to see the child under the supervision of a social worker. The little girl is being cared for at a place of safety.
GALLERY: Newlands baby found in storm drain recovering
The successful rescue operation caught the attention of international media, with footage and photos of the baby being pulled out of the drainpipe and treated by paramedics shared widely on international platforms.