Oscar Pistorius denied parole over killing of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp
Oscar Pistorius a Paralympic and Olympic medalist has been denied parole over the killing of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp 10 years ago.
Steenkamp was a model and a law graduate who was shot four times through his bathroom door in February 2013.
After a long trial and many appeals, he was convicted of murder and sentenced to 13 years in prison. He was accused by the state of intentionally killing Steenkamp out of jealousy or anger.
The parole board made its decision at a hearing held at Pretoria Correctional Facility, which is on the outskirts of the capital. This is where the 36-year-old is currently being held.
The Department of Correctional Services said the parole board found Pistorius had not completed the minimum detention period required to be let out. “
We were advised at this point that it has been denied and it will be considered again in one year,” Tania Koen, a lawyer for the victim’s family, told AFP.
Steenkamp’s parents, June and Barry, had opposed an early release, saying they did not believe the former athlete had told the truth about what happened and he had not shown remorse.
“While we welcome today’s decision, today is not a cause for celebration. We miss Reeva terribly and will do so for the rest of our lives. We believe in justice and hope that it continues to prevail,” they said in a statement via their lawyer.
