Girlfriend slayer Olympic athlete Oscar Pistorius released on parole after 11 years
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Pistorius, 37, had been incarcerated since late 2014 for shooting his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp
Oscar Pistorius, the fallen South African sprinter and former Olympic athlete, has been released from prison on parole, nearly 11 years after the tragic Valentine's Day killing of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.
The South African Department of Correctional Services confirmed his parole, stating that Pistorius is now under supervised freedom, requiring permission for various aspects of daily life.
Pistorius, 37, had been incarcerated since late 2014 for fatally shooting model and law school graduate Reeva Steenkamp in 2013. His release comes with stringent conditions, including attendance at "anger management courses and programs on gender-based violence," according to a statement from Reeva's mother, June Steenkamp.
While the release may reaffirm faith in the South African justice system for some, June Steenkamp expressed the enduring pain of losing her daughter and emphasised that no amount of time served could bring Reeva back. Pistorius, during his time behind bars, had faced house arrest before being sentenced to nearly 13½ years for murder.
Pistorius' defence claimed self-defence, arguing he mistook Reeva for an intruder. Prosecutors contended it was a result of a late-night argument. Despite his athletic achievements, including multiple Paralympic gold medals, Pistorius' legacy is forever marred by this tragedy.
The release follows the recent passing of Barry Steenkamp, Reeva's father, who tirelessly advocated for justice. Before his death, he and Pistorius met as part of South Africa's restorative justice program, hoping for acknowledgement and admission of wrongdoing.
The Blade Runner's fall from grace is etched in sports history, contrasting his inspiring athletic feats with the heinous crime that altered his life.
Once celebrated for overcoming physical challenges with carbon-fibre prosthetics, Pistorius reached global fame, earning medals at the Paralympics and participating in the 2012 London Olympics.
However, the shadow of Reeva Steenkamp's death will forever define the legacy of Oscar Pistorius.
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