Former Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius, known as the ‘blade runner’, has been released on parole after serving nearly 11 years for the murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.
Pistorius was granted parole in November and has now returned home, as confirmed by South Africa’s correctional services department.
The tragic incident occurred on Valentine’s Day in 2013 at Pistorius’ home in Pretoria, where he fatally shot Steenkamp, claiming he mistook her for an intruder.
As part of his parole conditions, the 37-year-old athlete faces restrictions on leaving his home, a prohibition on alcohol consumption, mandatory therapy sessions for anger and gender-based violence issues, and community service.
Moreover, Pistorius will have regular meetings with parole officers and can expect unannounced visits by authorities.
Any significant life changes, like employment plans or relocation, must be reported to the Department of Corrections.
Currently residing in his uncle’s Pretoria mansion, Pistorius is confined to the Waterkloof district without authorization.
Violation of any parole conditions could lead to his return to prison.
In a statement shared by the Steenkamp family lawyer, Ms Steenkamp’s mother said: “Has there been justice for Reeva? Has Oscar served enough time? There can never be justice if your loved one is never coming back, and no amount of time served will bring Reeva back.
“We, who remain behind, are the ones serving a life sentence,” June Steenkamp said. “With the release of Oscar Pistorius on parole, my only desire is that I will be allowed to live my last years in peace with my focus remaining on the Reeva Rebecca Steenkamp Foundation, to continue Reeva’s legacy.”
She said the conditions imposed by the parole board had affirmed her belief in the South African justice system as they “send out a clear message that gender-based violence is taken seriously”.
