In the trial of Oscar Pistorius the sentence is clear: the South African Paralympic star must for killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp for up to five years in prison.

Because of the involuntary manslaughter of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp Oscar Pistorius has up to five years in prison. This was decided in Pretoria Judge Thokozile Masipa. The possible maximum sentence was 15 years imprisonment. They also condemned the Sprint Star to three years in prison for reckless use of a firearm. This part of the sentence was suspended.

Both sides can appeal against the decision or appeal. They have until two weeks time. After the verdict Pistorius was arrested by the police in custody. An appeals process would suspend the enforcement of the prison sentence pending a decision by the Supreme Court of South Africa.

The lawyer for the family of slain Reeva Steenkamp welcomed the decision. It was “the right punishment”.

Judge Masipa had the Paralympics star found guilty on 12 September for manslaughter. On the night of Valentine’s Day 2013 he had shot his 29-year-old girlfriend at his home in Pretoria through a closed bathroom door. Pistorius affirms that he has kept Steenkamp for a burglar. The prosecution had demanded in the hearings on the punitive imprisonment. In contrast, the defense offered to experts who spoke out against a prison stay for Pistorius.

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