Barbie 'not remorseful'

Cezanne Visser could not claim to show remorse for the 11 sex crimes she was convicted of because she had not taken responsibility for them, the High Court in Pretoria heard.

In cross-examination of forensic criminologist Eon Sonnekus, prosecutor Andre Fourie challenged submissions that Visser, known as advocate Barbie, had shown remorse for her crimes, a mitigating factor for a lesser sentence.

"Straightforward she lied. She has not accepted responsibility."

Fourie said Visser had testified that she was sorry for the crimes against children and adults, but that she was manipulated by former lover Dirk Prinsloo.

Fourie said remorse meant repentance, followed by feelings of guilt and responsibility.