Oscar Pistorius and Reeva Steenkamp.Photo: Charlie Shoemaker/Getty; Mike Holmes/The Herald/Gallo Images/Getty
Oscar Pistorius, who hasbeen in jail since his 2014 convictionfor thekilling of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, is set to be released from prison on parole in January.
According to the Department of Correctional Services in South Africa, the parole board has set his release for Jan. 5, 2024.
“Parole placement forms part of the total rehabilitation programme in correcting offending behavior and may include continuation of programmes aimed at reintegration whilst in the system of community corrections,” the statement added.
Reeva Steenkamp (left) and Oscar Pistorius in Johannesburg, South Africa on Jan. 26, 2013.WALDO SWIEGERS/AFP via Getty
WALDO SWIEGERS/AFP via Getty
Per theBBC, Pistorius will also have to attend therapy sessions, according to the Steenkamp family’s spokesperson.
According to the outlet, Steenkamp’s mother, June Steenkamp, said in a letter sent to the parole board ahead of Friday’s hearing that she didn’t oppose Pistorius’ early release, but questioned whether he had truly dealt with his “huge anger issues” while in jail.
She also added that she would potentially be “concerned for the safety of any woman” who comes into contact with Pistorius.
Oscar Pistorius during his trial in South Africa on June 15, 2016.ALON SKUY/AFP via Getty
ALON SKUY/AFP via Getty
June did not attend Friday’s hearing at Atteridgeville Correctional Facility, according to the BBC, and said,“I simply cannot muster the energy to face him again at this stage.”
Pistorius fatally shot his girlfriend Reeva multiple times through a closed bathroom door on Valentine’s Day in 2013. The double-amputee, who earned the nickname “Blade Runner,” shot Reeva at his Pretoria, South Africa, home, authorities said.
During his trial in South Africa, Pistorius admitted to shooting the 29-year-old model and law school graduate, but claimed he mistook her for a burglar. He pleaded not guilty, however, prosecutors argued he intentionally killed Reeva in a fit of rage.
Oscar Pistorius competing during the London 2012 Olympics.Simon Bruty /Sports Illustrated via Getty
Simon Bruty /Sports Illustrated via Getty
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At the time, the Department of Correctional Services said Pistorius would be reconsidered for parole in August 2024.
source: people.com
