Reeva’s Parents Willing to Meet with Oscar Pistorius as He’s Considered for Parole
South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services has confirmed that convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius is being considered for parole, eight years into his imprisonment for killing his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp, in the early hours of Valentine’s Day in 2013. Her parents have indicated they would be willing to meet with him in the Victim Offender […]
South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services has confirmed that convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius is being considered for parole, eight years into his imprisonment for killing his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp, in the early hours of Valentine’s Day in 2013. Her parents have indicated they would be willing to meet with him in the Victim Offender Dialogue, as part of the process.
Pistorius has effectively served half of his 15 year jail sentence, meaning he was now eligible for parole.
Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo confirmed that Reeva’s parents have been contacted about the potential parole.
Nxumalo said: “The Department of Correctional Services can confirm its engagement with the family of the late Reeva Steenkamp on a matter involving inmate Oscar Pistorius.”
Steenkamp’s parents, Barry and June Steenkamp, have been approached for the Victim Offender-Dialogue. This would entail a meeting between the family and Pistorius.
Tania Koen Attorney, representing the Steenkamps, told SAPeople in a statement:
“June and Barry have respect for the law and accept that an offender qualifies for consideration for placement on parole after serving a certain portion of their sentence. They are willing to participate in the Victim Offender Dialogue as part of the process.”
The former Paralympian’s eligibility for parole is a year earlier than expected because of an oversight that was made when judgment was delivered, not taking into account the time already served before judgment.
Pistorius, who was initially found guilty of culpable homicide in 2016, was convicted for murder in 2017 when the State appealed to the Supreme Court of Appeal. Reeva was shot dead while in the toilet at Pistorius’ home. The athlete claimed he believed she was an intruder hiding in the toilet.
Being eligible for parole, does not necessarily mean it will be granted.
WATCH Oscar Pistorius is being considered for parole
Sources include: Reuters / African News Agency and Tania Koen Attorney