The former driver of Free State Premier Ace Magashule has been sentenced to an effective 15-years imprisonment in the Bloemfontein High Court for stealing an R8 million Pierneef painting.
Judge Soma Naidoo sentenced Ricardo Mettler on Wednesday.
In handing down the sentence, Judge Naidoo said Mettler's failure to take the witness stand to place his version of events before the court did not draw confidence.
She said Mettler, despite the court's findings, continued to disrespect the evidence presented in court, showed no remorse, and failed to take responsibility for his actions.
Judge Naidoo ruled that Mettler, as the bodyguard of the former Free State premier, used his position of power and trust to steal the Pierneef painting and this had damaged the image of the premier's office.
She said his actions created an impression that people in power could simply help themselves to state resources.
Mettler was sentenced to an additional 12-months in prison for making false statements to the police as he told them that Magashule gave him the painting as a gift.
Mettler stole the painting in March 2018 while helping to vacate the offices of Premier Magashule. He removed the barcode and covered it with brown paper before offering it to a businessman for a loan of between R2 million and R3 Million.
He placed the painting in the newspapers to see if anyone would claim it.
Shuping says a senior official from the Department of Public Works recognised the painting and contacted Mettler requesting that he return it. Mettler refused and a charge of theft was laid against him.
His sentences will run concurrently.
Shuping says the painting has since been returned to the Office of the Premier.
