Oscar Pistorius Jailed for Five Years for killing his Girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp

South African athlete Oscar Pistorius has been jailed for five years for killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

Judge Thokozile Masipa, issuing the ruling in court in Pretoria, also gave Pistorius a three-year suspended sentence for a firearms charge. Pistorius has been taken to the cells.

The prosecution had called for a minimum 10-year sentence; the defence for community service and house arrest.

Pistorius was convicted of culpable homicide but cleared of murder.
Judge Masipa began reading the sentence by saying that, although she had been aided by assessors, the decision was hers and hers alone.

She said: "Sentencing is about achieving the right balance. Sentencing is not a perfect exercise."
She said there must be a balance between retribution, deterrence and rehabilitation. 

The judge then summarised the evidence brought before the trial.


Follow Me On Twitter & Instagram: @effiongeton