Oscar Pistorius is heading to jail for five years for the negligent killing of his model girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp Valentine's Day 2013 . The now famous, or infamous (whichever you choose) Judge Thokozile Matilda Masipa managed to weigh in all the options in the case which has dragged for close to two years. But in the course of that, she made sure she explained why she came to that conclusion.
We put up her 10 strongest words at that sentencing which may give an insight to what she thought was an appropriate punishment for Oscar's crime... we're refering to the 5 years behind bars!
Here are Masipa's strongest words in the South African Court today Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2014:
"Masipa says mitigating factors include that Pistorius is a first offender and remorseful."
Masipa: As a country we have long moved from dark ages, an era of 'an eye for an eye'.
Masipa says there's a difference between public interest and what the public wants. She says courts can't compete in a popularity contest and that society can't always get what it wants. The court should strive for balance, interests of society, accused and seriousness.'
Masipa says that negative media reports affected Pistorius reputation and career prospects.
Masipa says an overemphasis was placed on Pistorius' vulnerability. She says he has excellent coping skills.
Masipa says that pregnant women are sentenced to jail. She says it would be a sad day if the impression was created that there's one law for the rich and famous, and another for the poor and disadvantaged.
Masipa: "The loss of life cannot be reversed. Nothing I say or do today can reverse what happened". She hopes the judgment provides some sort of closure to Steenkamps' friends and family.
Masipa: A non-custodial sentence would send a wrong message to the community. On the other hand, a long sentence would not be appropriate either.
She also thanks the gallery. "It was not an easy matter, but in general I was very pleased with the conduct of everyone involved."
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