The Blade Runner Oscar Pistorius Sentenced to 5 Years for the Death of Reeva Steenkamp

THAT’S IT?

Olympic and Paralympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius, the Blade runner was sentenced to 5 years in prison for the death, culpable homicide, of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. But he could be out a lot sooner than that. One has to wonder whether some one not of the blade runner’s popularity. Judge Thokozile Masipa said that her sentence to Pistorious was both fair and just to both to society and the accused. I am not too sure about that. Oscar Pistorius was originally charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, on Valentine’s Day 2013. Pistorius may have got a slap on the wrist, however, I am pretty sure his name and brand have been permanently tainted.

Judge Thokozile Masipa said a long-sentence would show a lack of mercy toward Pistorius, known as the “Blade Runner” for racing on prosthetic legs. She suspended a separate three-year sentence for an unrelated firearms charge.

Barry Roux, Pistorius’ lawyer, said his client could be released after 10 months to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest.

Reuters:

Olympic and Paralympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius started his five-year jail sentence on Tuesday for killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, marking the end of a trial that has gripped South Africa and millions around the world.

His uncle, Arnold Pistorius, indicated he would not appeal.

As judge Thokozile Masipa gave her decision on the 27-year-old’s culpable homicide conviction, Pistorius, whose downfall has been likened to that of American football star O.J. Simpson, stood resolutely in the dock.

His only reaction was to wipe his eyes before two police officers led him to the holding cells beneath the High Court in the heart of the South African capital.

Reeva Steenkamp’s mother says, “we’re satisfied with Pistorius sentence.” Sorry, but I don’t believe it. She seems more relieved its over.