Reeva Steenkamp's mom expresses concern as convicted killer boyfriend Oscar Pistorius is granted parole
PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA: Reeva Steenkamp was fatally shot by her Olympian boyfriend Oscar Pistorius on Valentine’s Day in 2013.
Now, the murderer has been granted parole, indicating that he will be released from prison after nearly 10 years.
However, the victim’s mother June is uncertain if the court's decision on Friday, November 24, is the right move.
"At this time, I am not convinced that Oscar has been rehabilitated,” June said regarding the former Paralympic gold medalist who is serving 13 years and five months in prison, as determined by a South African court in 2016.
“Rehabilitation requires someone to engage honestly with the full truth of his crime and the consequences thereof,” she stated.
June added, “Nobody can claim to have remorse if they are not able to engage fully with the truth. If someone does not show remorse, they cannot be considered to be rehabilitated.”
Pistorius was the first Paralympian to participate in the Olympics
Known as "Blade Runner," Oscar Pistorius made history in 2012 as the first Paralympian to compete in the Olympics.
According to authorities, Oscar shot and killed a law graduate and model at his residence in Pretoria, South Africa.
Reeva's mother, June, said in a statement, “I had forgiven Oscar long ago, as I knew almost instantly that I would not be able to survive if I had to cling to my anger," as reported by People.
“I do not believe Oscar’s version that he thought the person in the toilet was a burglar. In fact, I do not know anybody who does. My dearest child screamed for her life; loud enough for the neighbors to hear her.”
Pistorius will be released in January 2024
Ministry of Justice and Correctional Services, tweeted on Friday, “OSCAR PISTORIUS PLACED ON PAROLE. The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirms parole placement for Mr Oscar Leonard Carl Pistorius, effective from 5 January 2024.”
June skipped Friday’s hearing, stating, “I simply cannot muster the energy to face him again at this stage.”
While she didn’t oppose Pistorius’ early release, she questioned whether he had truly dealt with his "huge anger issues” during his time in prison.
The mother further said that she would potentially be “concerned for the safety of any woman” who comes into contact with him.
“I do not know which rehabilitation programs were attended by Oscar while incarcerated, but I sincerely hope that his rehabilitation included psychotherapy to deal with his temper and abusive behavior towards women,” June said.
