Pistorius, who claimed he mistook her for a burglar, was sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison in 2016. The parole board has scheduled his release for January 5, 2024, and he will be closely monitored, including mandatory therapy sessions. Reeva Steenkamp’s mother did not oppose his release but expressed concern about Pistorius’s anger issues and the safety of women he may encounter.
Oscar Pistorius, the former Paralympic champion convicted of murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013, is scheduled to be released on parole on January 5, 2024, nearly 11 years after the tragic incident. Pistorius shot Steenkamp multiple times through a bathroom door in their Pretoria home, claiming he believed she was an intruder. He was sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison in 2016.
Parole Conditions:
Upon his release, Oscar Pistorius will be subject to close monitoring by authorities, similar to other parolees. Any changes in residence or employment will require notification to his parole officer. Additionally, he will be required to attend therapy sessions, as indicated by the Steenkamp family’s spokesperson.
Steenkamp Family’s Response:
Reeva Steenkamp’s mother, June Steenkamp, did not oppose Pistorius’s release but expressed concerns about whether his “huge anger issues” had been adequately addressed during his prison sentence. She also voiced apprehension for the safety of any women who might come into contact with him. June Steenkamp chose not to attend the parole hearing, citing the emotional toll it would take.
Forgiveness and Previous Parole Hearing:
In a letter read to the parole board, June Steenkamp revealed that she had forgiven Oscar Pistorius “long ago” because she realized that clinging to anger was not a sustainable path. She mentioned that her husband, Barry Steenkamp, who passed away earlier this year, had met Pistorius as part of the rehabilitation process and had been deeply affected by their daughter’s death. Under South African law, offenders become eligible for parole once they have served half of their total sentence.
Oscar Pistorius is set to be released on parole in early 2024, marking a significant development in a case that has garnered international attention since 2013. The Steenkamp family, despite expressing concerns about Pistorius’s anger issues, has forgiven him, while the legal process continues to move forward according to South African law.