Oscar Pistorius is back in court today for sentencing – TheLiberal.ie – Our News, Your Views

Oscar Pistorius is back in court today for sentencing




image

The South African athlete Oscar Pistorius is back in court today for the start of his four day sentencing hearing.

Last month, the 27-yr-old was convicted of culpable homicide in the killing of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

He somehow escaped a murder conviction in a verdict that shocked the world and fuelled
criticism of South Africa’s legal system.

The defence team will bring mitigation arguments
before Judge Thokozile Masipa in the High Court in Pretoria.

Prosecutors will follow by arguing for aggravating circumstances.

Judge Thokozile Masipa will hear all arguments, adjourn the court and announce her sentencing
decision at a later date.

Pistorius could face as much as 15 years in one of South Africa’s notoriously brutal prisons or
could avoid a jail term altogether with a non-custodial sentence after being found guilty on the
equivalent of a manslaughter charge.

During the trial, the athlete was involved in a fist fight in a VIP area of a night club. The only time he was out during the process, it’s believed a reveller called him a murderer and shoved the runner.

Pistorius is currently released on €71,000 bail.

Share this story

Tell us what you think on our Facebook page