In a quiet departure from Atteridgeville prison on the outskirts of Pretoria, Oscar Pistorius, the former Olympic runner, was released on parole nearly 11 years after the tragic shooting of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. The once-celebrated “Blade Runner” completed more than half of his 13-year sentence, evading the media frenzy outside the prison.
The Department of Correctional Services confirmed Pistorius’ release, stating, “He was admitted into the system of Community Corrections and is now at home.” However, the exact location remains undisclosed, as Pistorius, now a 37-year-old double-amputee, is confined to the Pretoria district of Waterkloof.
Known for his carbon-fiber prosthetics, Pistorius, as a condition of parole, is prohibited from speaking to the media. Prison authorities, citing security concerns, had previously informed the press that no photography or interviews would be allowed during his release.
The notorious incident occurred on Valentine’s Day 2013 when Pistorius fatally shot Steenkamp, a 29-year-old model and law graduate, through the bathroom door of his highly secure Pretoria residence. Despite Pistorius’ historic achievements at the 2012 London Olympics, he was found guilty of murder in a lengthy trial that concluded in 2017.
Steenkamp’s mother, June, expressed her acceptance of the justice system’s decision but emphasized the enduring pain. “There can never be justice if your loved one is never coming back, and no amount of time served will bring Reeva back,” she stated in a poignant reflection.
Under the conditions of his parole until 2029, Pistorius must undergo therapy for anger and gender-based violence issues. Prohibited from consuming alcohol and other substances, he is also mandated to complete community service and adhere to specified home hours. The Department of Correctional Services asserted that Pistorius, despite his elevated public profile, would receive consistent treatment in line with other inmates.
In response to the parole conditions, June Steenkamp affirmed, “The conditions send out a clear message that gender-based violence is taken seriously” by the justice system. The Steenkamp family established the Reeva Steenkamp Foundation in 2015, advocating against violence towards women.
