Elton Jantjies’ in-flight outburst could hurt Springbok chances – legal expert

Elton Jantjies’ impending court case following charges laid against the Springbok flyhalf for an alleged ‘bloody’ outburst on an Emirates Airline flight could have a detrimental effect on the remainder of his rugby career.

Jantjies was apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport last Sunday and released on R1 000 bail.

He appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s court on Monday on charges of malicious damage to property, which, according to a Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, included breaking a TV screen and light bulb – meaning he contravened the Civil Aviation Act after breaking that aircraft light.

Jantjies is also alleged to have sworn at fellow passengers and crew members.

As was widely reported, Jantjies spent 10 minutes banging on a toilet door, while a fellow passenger alleges that Jantjies could be heard saying “Komaan, my skat (Come on, my darling)” to the air hostess who was hiding in the cubicle.

Following his appearance at the magistrate’s court, Jantjies was ordered to reappear in court again next month following further investigations and possible mediation.

According to legal experts mediation is offered as an alternative to having a dispute adjudicated in court.

This could – and is likely to – see Jantjies escape the charges he currently faces with little more than a warning and an order to pay costs.

Elton Jantjies turns 32 in August

HOWEVER, should he be prosecuted and convicted, the long-term effects of having a criminal record could well leave a mark on his rugby career, although at 32 years of age on 1 August, it’s winding to a close.

He would have a ‘black’ mark for 10 years after which it could be expunged and this could complicate any international travel, according to EWN.

Jantjies has played in 42 Tests for the Springboks and was part of the 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning squad that lifted the Webb Ellis Cup in Japan.

He has scored 312 points, thanks to two tries, 64 conversions, 57 penalties and one drop goals.