Pistorius Update

[Content Note: Guns; homicide; misogyny.]

Oscar Pistorius, who stood trial for the murder of Reeva Steenkamp, whom he was dating at the time he shot her, claiming he believed she was intruder, was found not guilty of murder last month by Judge Thokozile Masipa, who instead found him guilty of culpable homicide.

Now a probation officer, appearing on behalf of his defense at the sentencing hearing, has recommended that Pistorius, who faces up to 15 years, serve no jail time:

A probation officer appearing for the defence said Pistorius should serve house arrest and community service.

Prosecutor Gerrie Nel described the suggestion as "shockingly inappropriate".

...Judge Thokozile Masipa may suspend the sentence or impose a fine.

She said the athlete had acted "negligently" when he shot his girlfriend through a toilet door, but had genuinely thought her to be an intruder.

...[The sentencing hearing] seemed to go reasonably well for the defence. The athlete's first witness was trauma counsellor Lore Hartzenberg, who strongly implied that a "broken" Pistorius had been punished enough.

...The next witness was an even tougher challenge for the prosecution, since he was a state employee appearing for the defence. Social worker Joel Maringa assessed what punishment was suitable. He recommended no time in prison, and three years of house arrest and community service instead.

Judge Masipa, as usual, was giving little away, but asked for more details about what "community service" might entail.

What an utterly reprehensible display. The poor manbaby who claims to have accidentally shot and killed a woman after a history of dangerous and belligerent behavior with guns has suffered enough. Of course he has.

I am so sad and angry for Reeva Steenkamp's family and friends.