Paralympic Star Oscar Pistorius Attends Parole Hearing After Killing Girlfriend

Convicted Killer Up For Early Release

Oscar Pistorius is set to attend a parole hearing that could mean an early release from prison, 10 years after he killed his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. The hearing, held at the Pretoria correctional facility where Pistorius has been held, will determine if he has been rehabilitated or is still a danger to society. If released, he will have served half of his 13-year sentence for murder.

Crime that Shocked the World

In 2013 Pistorius shocked the world by shooting Steenkamp four times through the bathroom door of his ultra-secure Pretoria house. The athlete had pleaded not guilty and denied that he had killed Steenkamp in a fit of rage, claiming he mistook her for a burglar. The killing led to a lengthy trial, with several appeals until he was found guilty of murder in 2017.

Parole Board to Determine Purpose of Imprisonment

The parole board will consider whether Pistorius has been rehabilitated or is still a danger to society, as well as his behaviour during his time in prison. The Steenkamp family’s lawyer, Tania Koen, confirmed that June Steenkamp is planning to attend the hearing make representations. If denied, Pistorius has the right to approach the courts for review.

A Sporting Icon Now Convicted Murderer

Pistorius was once a sporting icon known as the “Blade Runner” due to his carbon-fibre prosthetics and being the first double amputee to race at the Olympics in 2012. However, his conviction resulted in the loss of sponsorships and the end of his sporting career.

A Decision Delayed

The hearing will be closed to the media, and parole decisions usually made within a day. However, authorities have suggested that the decision in Pistorius’s case may not be made the same day as the hearing is concluded.

Credit: https://ewn.co.za/2023/03/31/oscar-pistorius-parole-hearing-will-be-closed-to-media

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