Murder accused mother Tiffany Meek says she fears for her life in prison

 

Murder accused mother, Tiffany Meek, has revealed that she was threatened while in custody, and that an attempt was made on her life.

Meek appeared in the Roodepoort Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where her case was transferred to the Johannesburg High Court for pre-trial. The court also finalised the indictment, confirming that Meek plans to call witnesses in her defence.

Her lawyer, Noven Naidoo, told the court that Meek had attempted to report the threats to prison wardens, but no action was taken.

“I have been instructed to inform the court that there was an attempted murder on the accused’s life in prison, she has sustained injuries because she had been stabbed twice on the right arm. She has received medical attention at the prison and there’s also an investigation that is ongoing.”

The 31-year-old faces multiple charges in connection with the death of her 11-year-old son, Jayden-Lee Meek, whose bruised body was found just metres from their Fleurhof flat earlier this year.

Appearing noticeably composed compared to previous court appearances, Meek was informed that her case will now proceed to the High Court for pre-trial.

During the session, Naidoo also revealed that he will no longer represent Meek due to financial constraints, and that she has applied for legal aid to continue her defence.

Meek continues to maintain her innocence and intends to appeal her bail denial. The matter has been postponed to November 20th.

The case has gripped the community since May, when Jayden-Lee was reported missing on May 13 after failing to return home from school.

A frantic search ended in heartbreak the following day, when his half-naked body was found near the staircase of the Swazi Place complex, near his home.

Court previously heard that Jayden-Lee had suffered a blunt-force head injury, and his belongings — including his schoolbag, shoes, and red school jacket — were found in unit 13, where Meek resides.

During her bail application, Magistrate Anneline Africa described Meek as manipulative and dishonest, noting inconsistencies in her version of events. The magistrate also questioned the timing of Meek’s movements, saying her return home on the day Jayden-Lee’s body was found was “no coincidence.”

She added that Meek appeared untruthful in her bail statement and was capable of influencing witnesses and manipulating evidence.

Meek will remain in custody as the case moves to the High Court.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe