Joan Singrew murder trial starts

The two men accused of murdering the 53-year-old Joan Singrew last November appeared in the Circuit High Court in George on Wednesday 5 November, where the charges against them were read into the record.

- Kristy Kolberg

Joan's husband, Duane (46), faces eight charges, namely assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, two charges of common assault, domestic violence, aggravated robbery, kidnapping, murder and defeating the ends of justice. His cousin, Heinrich Jumat (45), was charged with aggravated robbery, kidnapping, murder and defeating the ends of justice. Both the accused pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

Singrew and Jumat have been in custody since their arrest, after their bail was denied last December.

Joan's body was discovered in a wooded area near Great Brak River on Monday 25 November 2024 - what would have been her 54th birthday. She was last seen at her home in St Mary Street, Rosemoor, at about 07:30 on Thursday 21 November. Concern among her friends and family grew when she failed to arrive at work that day.