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Oscar Pistorius Sentenced to Six Years in Jail for Reeva Steenkamp Murder

Olympic athlete Oscar Pistorius has been sentenced to six years in prison for murdering his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp in 2013.

Oscar Pistorius in court today, sentenced to 6 years in jail for murder
Oscar Pistorius in court today, sentenced to six years in jail for murder.

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His latest jail sentence comes after his initial five-year conviction for manslaughter was changed to that of murder during an appeal in December 2015.

The South African athlete was taken straight to his cell after he received his sentence from Judge Thokozile Masipa. His lawyers say they will not appeal the decision.

Pistorius, 29, shot Steenkamp four times through a locked door in February 2013. He admitted to shooting her, but claimed he had mistaken his girlfriend for an intruder.

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Many commenters have expressed surprise at the sentence, which is much less than the prescribed minimum for murder.

Pistorius has already served one year of his previous conviction. He is obliged to serve half of his new term before being eligible for parole.

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“A long term in prison will not serve justice,” Judge Masipa said in her hourlong session. “Public opinion may be loud and persistent, but it can play no role in the decision of this court.”

Tell Us: What do you think of Pistorius’ new sentence?

Check out Christina Garibaldi and Ian Drew dishing on all the latest on this story during Us Weekly’s Facebook Live News Update.

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