Oscar Pistorius, the South African Olympic runner who garnered global attention due to a tragic incident in 2013, has been released on parole after serving nearly nine years of his 13-year and five-month sentence for the fatal shooting of model and law graduate Reeva Steenkamp.
The South African Department of Corrections discreetly moved Pistorius from the Atteridgeville Correctional Center to his uncle’s mansion early Friday morning to avoid the media frenzy awaiting his release. The Department of Corrections confirmed Pistorius’ parole in a brief statement, stating that he is “now at home” and officially recognized as “a parolee.”
Having become eligible for early release after serving at least half of his sentence, Pistorius was granted parole approval in November, leading to his release on Friday. The Department of Corrections spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo, referred to the operation as a precaution to prevent media chaos, emphasizing that Pistorius was processed in line with established procedures.
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The 37-year-old athlete is expected to reside initially at his uncle’s home in the affluent Pretoria suburb of Waterkloof, where he previously lived during his murder trial in 2014. Security measures were evident around the mansion, with a police van and private security vehicles stationed outside.
Arnold and Lois Pistorius, Oscar’s uncle and aunt, have been the primary caregivers for Pistorius and his siblings since their estrangement from their father. The discreet release aligns with the Department of Corrections’ commitment to not publicize Pistorius’ parole time and avoid media parading, respecting his privacy as he transitions back into society.
Oscar Pistorius’ release marks a chapter in a deeply tragic saga that began on Valentine’s Day in 2013. The athlete, known as the “Blade Runner” for his prosthetic legs, shot Reeva Steenkamp multiple times through a toilet door at his Pretoria villa, leading to a high-profile trial that captivated the world. Pistorius’ return to his uncle’s residence remains shrouded in secrecy, offering a private and controlled environment for his reintegration into daily life.
