Renowned South African olympian, Oscar Pistorius, was found not guilty of the murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, this past week as his trial came to a close. Steenkamp's mother says "I can't believe they believe it was an accident...Justice was not served" in response to the jury's verdict that Pistorius should not be charged with premeditated murder. Pistorius' defense was that he fired a gun at what he thought was a burglar without knowing it was his girlfriend, Reeva, on Valentine's Day last year. Pistorius was, however, found guilty of culpable homicide and could be sentenced up to 25 years in the Pretoria Central prison, which has a notorious history of "inmate-on-inmate rapes and stabbing." Throughout the trial Pistorius has been very emotional, sometimes even sobbing in court; however, as he faced the jury's verdict, he remained suspiciously stoic and composed.
It is very unfortunate to see an icon, perhaps even a hero, to people across the world fall from respect. Pistorius' actions are unforgivable; he has compromised a human life. Reeva Steenkamp and her family members have suffered the ultimate consequence for Pistorius' actions. Although, there was no concrete evidence presented that showed Pistorius had prearranged plans to kill Reeva Steenkamp, his defense did not seem entirely believable, especially to Steenkamp's family. Regardless of Pistorius' motives (or lack thereof), it is concerning to see that Pistorius' initial reaction to a potential intruder would be to kill, which contradicts the idea of humanity and morality. Claiming a human life should not be tolerated; Pistorius deserves to receive his full sentence so that justice is served and Steenkamp's life is avenged.
Source:
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/oscar-pistorius-murder-trial-guilty-culpable-homicide-article-1.1937326
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ReplyDeleteI agree, it is so sad to see someone who used to be an inspiration to so many fall from grace so quickly. The whole trail was ridiculous. He fired his gun multiple times into the door, now whether or not he knew who it was he had intentions of hurting whoever was on the other side. He knew he would hit someone, which went back on his statements. I do think is incredible that he got away with it, because his goal was to harm the "intruder" or he wouldn't have fired four times.
ReplyDeleteThis topic makes me incredibly angry.. I'm sorry but if I thought an "intruder" was in my home I'd check for my loved one and try to figure out where they are and then make a game plan.. instead of shooting at my bathroom door four times. FOUR TIMES. Supposedly he didn't know she was in there, I'm calling BS, excuse my language but it's ridiculous.
ReplyDelete-Sophia Maas 2nd Period