Oscar Pistorius Granted Early Release from South African Prison

The South African Department of Correctional Service has officially announced that former Paralympian champion Oscar Pistorius will be released from prison on January 15, 2024.

Pistorius, who was convicted of murdering his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, almost 11 years ago, will regain his freedom. The incident occurred on Valentine’s Day in 2013 when Pistorius shot Steenkamp multiple times in his home, claiming he thought there was a burglar.

The 37-year-old was initially sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison. This recent decision comes after his second parole hearing in under a year. His first bid for parole in March 2023 was denied as he had not completed the required minimum detention period.

A mistake was later recognized by South Africa’s Constitutional Court, and during the recent parole hearing on November 24, 2023, Pistorius was informed that he is eligible for release in January 2024, contrary to the initial indication of parole eligibility in August 2024.