Does Oscar Pistorius behind bars? And if so – for how long? In Pretoria begin the final hearings before the announcement of the punishment. The former sprint star threaten for the fatal shooting of his girlfriend up to 15 years in prison.

In the trial of South African Paralympic star Oscar Pistorius re-hearings of defense and prosecutors have begun. Both sides can present their arguments before a judge Thokozile Masipa will announce the sentence for the 27-year-olds.

As the first witness testified psychologist Lore Hartz Mountain, the Pistorius had met and was named by the defense.

Experts such as the criminal defense lawyer William Booth pointed out that the judge could be several weeks after the hearings for the consideration of all the arguments. Other observers of the process assume that the decision will be announced this week. This view is also the spokesman for the National prosecuting authority (NPA) of South Africa, Nathi Mncube.

Pistorius had his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp shot at night on Valentine’s Day 2013 through a closed bathroom door pass. He had taken her for a burglar who insists Pistorius. About a month ago he was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter.

Pistorius could face up to 15 years in prison. But the Paralympics star could also be spared with a suspended prison. Both the prosecution and the defense may appeal.

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