Oscar Pistorius, the former Paralympic champion convicted of murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, has been granted parole after nearly a decade in prison. The South African athlete shot and killed Steenkamp in 2013 and was sentenced to 13 years behind bars in 2016.
The private parole board hearing took place on November 24th at Atteridgevale prison in Pretoria. The board decided to release Pistorius on January 5th, 2024. However, there are conditions attached to his parole. Pistorius will be required to undergo anger management therapy and remain under supervision in the Waterkloof area for five years following his release.
While Reeva’s mother, June Steenkamp, did not attend the hearing, she expressed forgiveness for Pistorius in a victim impact statement read in court. This forgiveness may have influenced the parole board’s decision.
During the trial, Pistorius claimed that he mistook Steenkamp for a burglar when he fired four shots at her from a pistol. The parole conditions will limit his movements, work, and substance consumption to ensure public safety.
This is not the first time Pistorius has sought early release. Previously, he was denied due to an error in his prison sentence start date. Initially convicted of culpable homicide in 2014, a charge comparable to manslaughter, his conviction was later upgraded to murder in 2016.
The parole board took into account several factors in reaching its decision, including Pistorius’ conduct in prison, mental health, and risk to the community. It appears that these factors, along with June Steenkamp’s decision not to oppose parole, contributed to the board’s conclusion.
As Pistorius prepares for his release, the case continues to captivate the attention of the public. Many remain divided on the issue, arguing for justice or rehabilitation. For now, Pistorius will begin a new chapter outside prison walls, subject to parole conditions designed to ensure the safety of the community.
