Reference no: EM133854824

Mr J is a well-respected Grade 10 teacher at a local high school, known for his dedication and excellence in teaching. The community in which he teaches is firmly opposed to drug use, with parents and local residents actively discouraging any involvement with illegal substances.

One afternoon, after completing his marking and leaving the school premises, Mr J witnessed an interaction just outside the school gates. He observed an older child (age 16) handing over a small package to two younger children (age 14) in exchange for an envelope. As the younger children quickly departed, Mr J recognised the older child as a former student, remembering how the child's mother had frequently attended school to celebrate his academic achievements, until he dropped out of school in Grade 9.

Concerned by what he had seen, Mr J approached the older child and casually asked, "How are you? What are you selling? Can I have some too?" The child, initially startled, responded that he had no more available at that moment but could supply more in 20 minutes at a different location.

Mr J went to the designated meeting place, where the older child arrived with what appeared to be a package of cannabis. The child offered it for R2 500. Mr J, believing the price was excessive, refused to pay. When the child demanded the package back, Mr J refused, grabbed the child's arm, and said, "You are coming with me to the police station!"

The child managed to break free and ran home, with Mr J following closely. Once at the child's home, Mr J contacted the police. Upon their arrival, the authorities arrested the child. During questioning, the child revealed that he was not involved in large-scale drug distribution but was merely trying to raise money for his mother's cancer treatment. He admitted to growing cannabis and selling the leaves for herbal remedies, arguing that he could not control how buyers chose to use the product.

1. Compare the normative systems that are applicable to the child in this scenario. 

2. Evaluate and explain what sanctions would be fair to impose on the child.

3. Mr J learns that in a similar past case, the court ruled that because the minor was a first-time offender and did not intend to cause harm, they were sentenced to two months of community service. Advise Mr J on whether this past decision could impact the outcome of this case and what consequences the child might face, considering the community's stance on drug-related offences.