Oscar Pistorius released on parole 11 years after killing Reeva Steenkamp

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Paralympian Oscar Pistorius, known as the "blade runner," has been released on parole from a South African jail, nearly 11 years after the tragic murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.

Pistorius, who was convicted of murdering Steenkamp in 2015, has served half of his more than 13-year sentence.

Officials confirmed Pistorius's release, stating that he was "at home" on Friday morning, marking a significant development in a case that has garnered international attention.

Reeva Steenkamp's mother, June Steenkamp, reacted to the news by expressing her acceptance of the parole decision. However, she made it clear that her family continues to endure a lifelong sentence of grief over the loss of her daughter, BBC News reports.

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Oscar Pistorius during sentencing in the trial over the murder of Reeva Steenkamp. Credit: Pool / Getty

Pistorius's conviction stemmed from a tragic incident in 2013 when he shot Reeva Steenkamp multiple times through a door. The former athlete claimed that he had mistaken her for a burglar, a defense that was eventually overturned in court.

According to South African law, all offenders are entitled to parole consideration after serving half of their total sentence. Pistorius's sentence was officially set at 13 years and five months in 2017.

During his parole, Pistorius will be subject to strict conditions, including limitations on speaking to the media. These conditions will remain in effect until his sentence expires in 2029. It is believed that he will reside at his uncle Arnold Pistorius's home in an upmarket suburb of Pretoria.

In her statement, June Steenkamp expressed her family's understanding of the parole process, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the principles of the South African justice system. She highlighted her late husband Barry and her own belief in the system.

However, she questioned whether there had been true justice for Reeva and whether Pistorius had served enough time for his crime. She made reference to the irreplaceable loss that comes with losing a loved one and acknowledged that no amount of time served could bring Reeva back.

She further mentioned her desire to live her remaining years in peace, focusing on the Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation, dedicated to continuing Reeva's legacy.

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During his parole, Pistorius will be subject to strict conditions, including limitations on speaking to the media. Credit: Charlie Shoemaker / Getty

Pistorius initially entered prison in October 2014 following his initial conviction. There was a period of house arrest between 2015 and 2016 before his conviction was changed, leading to an extension of his sentence.

Pistorius, who had both lower legs amputated when he was less than a year old, had a remarkable athletic career, earning the nickname "blade runner." He achieved success at the Paralympics, winning multiple gold medals, and made history by competing against non-disabled athletes at the London Olympics in 2012. However, the tragic murder of Reeva Steenkamp just six months later changed the course of his life.

While the South African department of correctional services has confirmed that Pistorius will be treated like any other parolee, Reeva Steenkamp's family continues to grapple with the enduring pain of their loss. Reeva, a law graduate, successful model, and aspiring advocate for abused women, was just 29 years old when she died.

Her promising life was cut short on February 14, 2013, when Pistorius fired four shots through a door at his home in Pretoria. Her death, the legal proceedings that followed, and the subsequent appeals have captivated global headlines.

Pistorius was initially convicted of culpable homicide, which was later changed to murder by the Supreme Court of Appeal. The court ruled that his version of events was inconsistent and improbable, stating that he had "fired without having a rational or genuine fear that his life was in danger."

Featured image credit: Anadolu / Getty