Showing posts with label South Africa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label South Africa. Show all posts

Thursday, July 7, 2016

Oscar Pistorius Sentenced To 6-Years In Prison On The Shooting Death Of Girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp


Former Olympian, Oscar Pistorius, was today sentenced to 6-years in jail over the shooting death of girlfriend, law student and model, Reeva Steenkamp, whom the athlete shot and killed at his home in Pretoria, South Africa in 2013. In 2014 Pistorius was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 5-years in jail. However, he was placed on house arrest during the prosecution's appeal in the case.

Public outcry over the well publicized sentence led to the appeal and the high court subsequently overturning the original verdict by Judge Thokozile Masipa. In December 2015, the high court ruled Pistorius must be tried in court again again, but on the more severe charge of murder, as oppose to manslaughter.

 
Reeva Steenkamp and Oscar Pistorius

Pistorius was convicted again today, as a result of the high court remanding the case back to heavily criticized Judge Thokozile Masipa. There is public outcry again regarding the case, as under the law, the judge should have given Pistorius the 15-year statutory minimum for murder. However, she has given Pistorius less than half the mandatory. This has created anger on social networking and among women's rights groups. Comments are flooding website stating Masipa continues to show bias in her rulings regarding "fallen hero" Pistorius. Many are stating Pistorius was given a slap on the wrist and could be released from prison in 2-years, whereas other South Africans who committed lesser crimes, such as theft, were given 12-15 years in prison.

The African National Congress Women's League spokesperson, Jacqui Mofokeng, slammed the sentence, "The judgment is an insult to women. It's an insult we saw coming a mile off and an increasingly mundane insult to which we have all become accustomed. We owe Reeva Steenkamp and women everywhere our outrage today, however subdued and demoralized we might feel. Because we known, deep down, that six years for murder isn't just insulting. It's dangerous."

PUBLIC FEEDBACK FROM TWITTER:



 
STORY SOURCE
 
Oscar Pistorius sentencing: Live updates as six-year sentence is dubbed an 'insult to women' by equality campaigners

Updated 16:31, 6 Jul 2016 - Oscar Pistorius has been jailed for six years for the murder of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp this morning. The Olympic and Paralympic icon repeatedly shot the 29-year-old model after she barricaded herself in the bathroom of his home in Pretoria on February 2013. He appeared at North Gauteng High Court this morning after a three-and-a-half year legal battle.

During sentencing Judge Thokozile Masipa said there was no evidence that Ms Steenkamp and Pistorius had rowed on the night he gunned her down. “Counsel for the defence correctly submitted that there was an unfortunate perception in the minds of some people that on the night of the murder there was an argument between the accused and the deceased and that this is what led to the murder of the deceased,” she said.

“The existence of such a perception was inadvertently confirmed by the father of the deceased Barry Steenkamp‚ who‚ during the course of his evidence‚ let slip this very perception.” “The unfortunate part of it is that there is not a shred of evidence placed before this court that supports such a perception.”...
http://www.mirror.co.uk

African National Congress spokesperson: Oscar Pistorius sentence 'insulting'

11:53 a.m. EDT July 6, 2016 - South African Judge Thokozile Masipa said “there is no indication at all” that former Olympic sprinter Oscar Pistorius and the girlfriend he murdered were in an abusive relationship. African National Congress Women’s League spokesperson Jacqui Mofokeng, however, called the Valentine’s Day 2013 murder of Reeva Steenkamp a clear case of gender violence shortly after Masipa found “substantial and compelling circumstances” to levy Pistorius with a six-year prison term, a fraction of the mandatory 15-year prison sentence.

“The judgment is an insult to women,” Mofokeng said in a statement. “It’s an insult we saw coming a mile off (and an) increasingly mundane insult to which we have all become accustomed. “We owe Reeva Steenkamp and women everywhere our outrage today, however subdued and demoralized we might feel. Because we know, deep down, that six years for murder isn’t just insulting. It’s dangerous.”...

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

When Lions Attack (Video)

Sometimes humans underestimate the intelligence of animals, who understand far more than the average person thinks. A family who was on a safari in South Africa found out the hard way that lions can open car doors. Hilarious feedback comments from the public on the video include the lion viewed the people in the car as “Meals On Wheels” which is a food charity service in America.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Oscar Pistorius Sentenced To 5-Years For The Killing Of Reeva Steenkamp But Will Serve 10-Months Leading To Outrage Online

Oscar Pistorius

Olympic and Paralympic sprinter, Oscar Pistorius was sentenced to 5-years in jail in the killing of his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp. Reports indicate Pistorius will likely serve 10-months in jail in South Africa and the remainder of his sentence on house arrest. 


Reeva Steenkamp and Oscar Pistorius

This news has created outrage on the internet, as many are stating on social networking the sentence is too light for the crime. Pistorius maintains it was an accident and he thought Steenkamp was an intruder. However, many discrepancies surfaced in the case causing people to doubt his claims. Steenkamp's family stated they are satisfied with the verdict.

RELATED ARTICLE
 

Monday, September 15, 2014

Oscar Pistorius Found Guilty Of Manslaughter In The Death Of Girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp

Oscar Pistorius

After being acquitted of "premeditated murder" athlete Oscar Pistorius has been found guilty of manslaughter in the shooting death of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. The beautiful model and reality star was shot dead by Pistorius in his home. Pistorius stated he mistook Steenkamp for an intruder. Prosecutors in his native South Africa are of the belief, the couple had a fight, Steenkamp fled to the bathroom and Pistorius in a rage shot her to death through the door. 

Reeva Steenkamp

South African judge, Thokozile Masipa, ruled Pistorius shooting Steenkamp four times would cause anyone to believe death could result from discharging a firearm multiple times. Other items have created pause among the public. Why would Steenkamp have locked herself in the bathroom, putting the lock on, if she was not afraid of being attacked. Secondly, why did Pistorius wait so long to call for help. The life drained out of Steenkamp while Pistorius waited so long after shooting her to call an ambulance. It gives a certain impression. 


Reeva Steenkamp and Oscar Pistorius

Pistorius, who cried uncontrollably in court, is currently free on bail in South Africa and must return to the court next month to be sentenced regarding his manslaughter conviction. Pistorius faces up to 15-years in prison on the manslaughter conviction.

Friday, September 12, 2014

Oscar Pistorius Found Not Guilty Of Premeditated Murder In The Death Of Girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp Prompting Outrage Online (Video)

Oscar Pistorius

The internet reacted in shock yesterday when athlete Oscar Pistorius was acquitted of premeditated murder charges in the shooting death of girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. As the verdict was read from the South African court and filtered out around the world, people voiced their opinions on social networking calling it an injustice.

Reeva Steenkamp
Judge Thokozile Masipa stated prosecutors had not proven their case. She further stated "manslaughter" was a "competent" charge, as he did in fact kill Steenkamp. However, the prosecutors went for the highest charges they could muster, due to Pistorius' history of domestic violence with other women, the gruesome nature of the crime scene and the fact he did not call for help after shooting Steenkamp. 


The case should not be about Pistorius being famous, an Olympian and a Paralympian. At the end of the day, a woman was shot dead under bizarre circumstances. Her family is devastated and demanding justice. Those are the only factors that should be of relevance.

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Discrepancies Appear In The Oscar Pistorius Murder Trial (Video)



Evidence in the Oscar Pistorius murder trial has revealed several inconsistencies in the track star’s statements about the death of his girlfriend, Riva Steenkamp. The trial, which is currently under way in South Africa, is being presided over by a judge, not a jury, as said system was abolished years ago.

 

Oscar Pistorius
The testimony in the case has been powerful and gripping on both sides. Pistorius’ recollection of events on the night of the shooting do not reconcile with the timeline medical examiners have established in the death of the beautiful model. Pistorious stated he thought Steenkamp was an intruder in his home when he fired the fatal shots that claimed her life. Four bullets pierced Steenkamp’s body as she sat in a bathroom cubicle with her mobile phones. There has been so much speculation in the case thanks to sensationalism from select journalists to sell papers that the public is having trouble distinguishing the truth.


Reeva Steenkamp and Oscar Pistorius

Discrepancies regarding the time Pistorius stated she Steenkamp had eaten and what she was wearing, have raised doubts about what truly transpired that night. Steenkamp’s parents are demanding answers due to several discrepancies in his story. Pistorius has been very distraught in court, even vomiting at one juncture. The Judiciary Report hopes this was just a dreadful accident, as lives have been changed in a drastic way and Steenkamp has passed away.

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Nelson Mandela Laid To Rest In Dignified Funeral


Nelson Mandela's funeral in South Africa
A solemn and dignified military funeral was held yesterday for world hero and former South African President Nelson Mandela. The funeral had a South African Air Force fly over and 21 gun salute. The funeral was attended by many global dignitaries, who had come to pay their last respects to an extraordinary man.

The Jamaica Observer Newspaper writes, "Jamaica was the first country in the western hemisphere and second in the world to India which officially banned trade and travel with the fascist apartheid Government which practised a brutal form of racism in South Africa."


Military fly over in tribute to Mandela at his funeral

Mandela has always been an inspiration to Jamaicans. He symbolizes freedom, equality, courage and hope. In him Jamaicans see a brave conqueror who fought the oppressor and won. Three years before he became the first black President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela and his then wife Winnie Mandela, were formally invited to Jamaica by the late, great Jamaican Prime Minister, Michael Manley. The Mandelas graciously accepted and visited Jamaica in July 1991.

My aunt, Professor Lorna Goodison, an award winning writer, who is one of the most famous poets in the world, was chosen to write a poem for the Mandelas, which she read to them at an official ceremony. She titled it "Bedspread" in tribute of the Mandelas love during the time of his unjust incarceration (see poem below).


Former Jamaican Prime Minister Michael Manley, former South African President Nelson Mandela and then wife Winnie Mandela in 1991

Growing up in America, I have witnessed how Mandela has been a strong and positive force as well, spoken about with admiration and love by many. He is a man that took a stand and paid a dear price for it in his nation, but in the end, justice prevailed and he was vindicated. People should always stand up for what they believe, because right is right and wrong is wrong. Rest in peace Mr. Mandela.

"Bedspread" by Lorna Goodison

Sometimes in the still
unchanging afternoons
when the memories crowded
hot and hopeless against
her brow
she would seek its cool colors
and signal him to lie down
in his cell.
It is three in the afternoon Nelson
let us rest here together
upon this bank draped in freedom
color.
It was woven by women with slender
capable hands
accustomed to binding wounds,
hands that closed the eyes of
dead children,
that fought for the right to
speak in their own tongues
in their own land
in their own schools.
They wove the bedspread
and knotted notes of hope
in each strand
and selvaged the edges with
ancient blessings
older than any white man's coming.
So in the afternoons lying on this
bright bank of blessing
Nelson my husband I meet you in dreams
my beloved much of the world too is
asleep blind to the tyranny and evil
devouring our people.
But, Mandela, you are rock on this sand
harder than any metal
mined in the bowels of this land
you are purer than any
gold tempered by fire
shall we lie here wrapped
in the colors of our free Azania?
They arrested the bedspread.
They and their friends are working
to arrest the dreams in our heads
and the women, accustomed to closing
the eyes of the dead
are weaving cloths still brighter
to drape us in glory in a Free Azania.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Mr. Obama Kisses Up To Mrs. Obama After SelfieGate At Nelson Mandela's Memorial

 
Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt. U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama and President Barack Obama

Any smart husband knows how to get out of the doghouse, when he's done something his wife isn't thrilled with, that firmly placed him in trouble. President Obama is no different. After getting platonically playful with leggy Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, "arm-y" Michelle Obama with her perfectly toned arms, was looking at her husband and Schmidt like she was summoning the strength of Mike Tyson to deal with both of them.


However, Mr. Obama groveling bent over and kissed Mrs. Obama's hand (yea, he saw that frying pan in his future and wanted to avert it). After the chivalrous sucking up gesture, Mrs. Obama beamed from ear to ear. Problem solved. She has Obama whipped. Man stares down  terrorists and tyrants, but can't stare down his wife (kidding).

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Female Prime Minister Fawns Over President Obama And First Lady Michelle Obama Shuts It Down


British Prime Minister David Cameron, Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt and U.S. President Barack Obama taking a "selfie" (a picture of one's self)

While attending the memorial for the late great Nelson Mandela in South Africa, U.S. President Barack Obama got himself into a spot of trouble with wife, First Lady Michelle Obama. At least, that's how Twitter is hilariously making it look. President Obama was taking photos with his ally, British Prime Minister David Cameron and Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, during the memorial that served as a celebration of Mandela's amazing life. 

 

Follow the sequence of photos from top to bottom for a good laugh

Then, Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt began to fawn over President Obama, laughing and smiling with him, prompting him to platonically pat her on the back. This caused Mrs. Obama to have an "oh really" look on her face that was priceless. Next thing you know, Mrs. Obama had switched seats with Mr. Obama and both he and Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt were no longer smiling and laughing (but Twitter was). Mrs. Obama put Mr. Obama on time out (haha).


First Lady Michelle Obama and President Barack Obama

Speaking of Mrs. Obama, the dress she wore to the Kennedy Center honors last week was stunning and made the news. It's her best look to date. Mr. Obama kept staring at her as well, looking quite mesmerized. You know they totally did it when they got home.

Nelson Mandela's Memorial Is A Beautiful Picture Of Blacks And Whites United In Remembrance

 

U.S. President Barack Obama at Nelson Mandela memorial

Heads of state from all around the world gathered in South Africa for the memorial service of former South African President and civil rights hero Nelson Mandela. Following the rich South African tradition, the crowds celebrated his life, viewing his passing as a monumental moment transitioning from one life to another in heaven. 

 

Crowds at the Mandela memorial

To see blacks and whites side by side celebrating the life and legacy of Mandela is beautiful. It is confirmation of how far South Africa has come as a nation. They must not fear the future, but carry on the rich legacy Mandela left behind, regarding loving one another and viewing each other as equals.

Friday, December 6, 2013

World Hero Nelson Mandela Has Died


Nelson Mandela

Civil rights hero Nelson Mandela (Madiba) passed away yesterday at the age of 95. The wonderful, courageous South African, was cruelly and unjustly jailed for 27-years for peacefully opposing apartheid. After his release, Madela, born into African royalty, became the first black President of South Africa, in a monumental moment in history and one that is proudly remembered by many.


Mandela preached a beautiful message that all are equal. Mandela, like fellow human rights advocate and civil rights hero, Martin Luther King Jr, devoted his energies to uniting blacks and whites, which is an admirable life's calling. He stood and will always stand as a symbol of peace and perseverance. The world was made better because he was in it. God bless Mandela and may he rest in peace.

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Man Sentenced To 35-Years In Prison For Murder Plot Against Nelson Mandela And Scheme To Drive All Black People Out Of South Africa Through Military Force

 
Boeremag also known as Mike du Toit
 
White supremacist militia leader, Boeremag, real name, Mike du Toit, has been sentenced to 35-years in jail for a 2002 plot to kill former South African President Nelson Mandela and drive all black people out of South Africa. Boeremag’s 20 coconspirators were given jail sentences between 10-20 years. Some were released for time served, while other accomplices remain behind bars.

 
Nelson Mandela
 
The aforementioned incident occurred in modern times (2002). This is now 2013. Everyone black, white, Hispanic, Indian and Asian should have the equal chance to succeed and prosper in society. Let the race hating and baiting garbage go. Work towards a peaceful, harmonious society based on just and fair laws.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Rihanna Slammed Again By Her Fans


Rihanna

Rihanna's recently concert in South Africa has been slammed by her fans, in what is becoming a common occurrence for the drug addled alcoholic singer. South African newspapers blasted her concert and fans also took to the internet to slam the show that is being labeled a lip-sync packed "rip off."

This year, Rihanna has been booed and slammed in America, Britain, Australia and South Africa, a clear indication the public is turning on her. Rihanna boasted in a recent interview that she will never fall or be over, but she's not paying attention to the signs indicating that is exactly what is happening.

STORY SOURCE

Rihanna disappoints South African fans with 'rip-off' performance

Tuesday 15th October 2013 - Rihanna made front page of The Star Johannesburg newspaper on Monday morning, being blasted a "Ri-Ri-Rip-off!"after concert-goers complained that she brought low energy, lip-synching, and lack of costume change to the stage during her show...

The Star Johannesburg newspaper went on to label her performance as "below-par" and that she "lacked vitality". Sharon Seretlo, a staff photographer, who attended the concert also said that "it was obvious...I could see it." It wasn't just the performance that had the fans in uproar, with ticket prices also coming under fire. Fans such as Nicole Contini, did feel the price was too steep, "considering the level of performance."

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Movie Review - Vehicle 19


Title: Vehicle 19

Year Of Release: 2013

Review Date: July 31, 2013

Rating: R

Running time: 85 minutes

Box Office Gross: N/A

Site Rating: 4 out of 10 stars

"Vehicle 19" is the action drama starring actor Paul Walker, who plays an ex-convict named "Michael" who visits South Africa to see his girlfriend. He picks up his rental car, but the paperwork doesn't match, as an employee gave him the wrong vehicle. This is where his nightmare begins.


Spoiler Alert: Michael finds a gun and mobile phone in the car and shortly after, a woman who has been bound and gagged. The woman, Rachel Shabangu, is a South African prosecutor who has been kidnapped for uncovering a sex trafficking ring, targeting underage women and adult females. After some conflict, he rushes to get her to a judge to tell her story, but is chased the entire way by corrupt law enforcement trying to stop them.


"Vehicle 19" was an interesting film. In starts off somewhat quietly, but has many twists and turns along the way and a few surprises. It is not an airheaded film, too superficial to appreciate. However, it could have done without the profane language to reach a wider audience.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Obama's Visit To South Africa Being Met With Protests And Calls For His Arrest


Barack Obama

U.S. President Barack Obama has embarked on a tour of African nations, but all is not well for the head of state during the trip. Police fired rubber bullets and a stun grenade at hundreds of protestors in South Africa. The large crowd had gathered to protest President Obama's policies.

Elsewhere in South Africa groups are demanding Obama be arrested. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu), African National Congress, South African Communist Party (SACP) and the Muslim Lawyer's Association (MLA) are all calling for Obama's arrest over his policies.

STORY SOURCE

Anti-Obama protests dispersed by South Africa police

11:18 a.m. EDT June 29, 2013 - President Obama is meeting with South Africa's leader at the start of a weekend visit that will pay tribute to the legacy of critically ill former President Nelson Mandela. JOHANNESBURG — Police fired rubber bullets and a stun grenade into a crowd of hundreds of protesters waiting for President Obama to arrive at the University of Johannesburg on Saturday. The crowd quickly scattered as police officers walked up the street pushing protesters away with shot guns.


Q&A: S African group calls for Obama's arrest

28 Jun 2013 15:59 - US President might not be received in South Africa with the aplomb he enjoys elsewhere on the continent...

The country's largest trade union grouping, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu), which is in alliance with the governing African National Congress, has called on its members to join workers and citizens across the globe to "actively participate" in protests against Obama's visit.

Cosatu cites Obama's "horrifying record of US foreign policy in the world", highlighting, the "militarisation of international relations for the multinational companies and their profit-seeking classes in the US". It is also opposing the "US support for oppressive regimes that benefit US narrow interests", saying in a statement on its website that its call was part of world-wide struggle against imperialism.

Many in the country have already heeded the call with a huge protests, dubbed the "Nobama campaign", being planned across the country. The University of Johannesburg's decision to award him an honorary degree has already spurred protest and frustration.

Among the various organisations supporting Cosatu's call include the South African Communist Party (SACP), and the Muslim Lawyer's Association (MLA)...

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Oscar Pistorius Granted $115,000 Bail In Murder Case


Olympian and Paralympian, Oscar Pistorius, has been granted conditional bail in the shooting death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. Conditions of his bail include not returning to his mansion, which is the crime scene, staying away from witnesses in the case and not consuming drugs or alcohol. He must also report to police twice a week.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Prosecutors In The Oscar Pistorius Murder Trial Label The Star A Liar Over The Death Of His Girlfriend While His Defense Team Refutes Steroids Claim


Oscar Pistorius in court this week

Olympic and Paralympic sprinter and murder suspect, Oscar Pistorius, has withdrawn from all competition in the upcoming racing season, despite the fact he is seeking bail in his criminal trial, regarding the shooting death of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. There may also be another reason. Police acknowledged the fact steroids were found in Pistorius' Pretoria, South Africa home, which is the crime scene.

Some will also interpret his announced withdrawal from all competition in the upcoming racing season, to the aforementioned steroids found in his property. However, Pistorius' legal defense team has refuted the police claim regarding the alleged steroids in his home, stating what was found by officers is a testosterone enzyme product that is classified as a herbal remedy. Pistorius' lawyers state the substance is legal. Medical tests are expected in this regard.


Reeva Steenkamp

Prosecutors have laid out a very serious case against the gold medalist and are adamant it was not an accident. They spoke in no uncertain terms about their strong suspicion Pistorius’ actions constitute "premeditated murder." They are of the belief, Pistorius is lying about mistaking Steenkamp for a burglar.

Evidence presented indicates Steenkamp was in her night clothes and an overnight bag was present in the property. Initially, it was reported Steenkamp surprised Pistorius and he opened fire. Now Pistorius’ defense team is stating the two were asleep in bed, he woke up and went onto the balcony at 3:00 without his prosthetic legs. Steenkamp went to the bathroom and Pistorius heard the noise, believing it was a burglar. They are stating Pistorius did not realize Steenkamp had gotten out of bed and went into the bathroom, as they allege it was dark due to the lights being off.




Prosecutors do not believe Pistorius' account of events, stating neighbors heard arguing and shortly after a woman's screams. Another key claim is a neighbor stating the lights were on in Pistorius' property, including the balcony in question. The neighbor stated he was on his own balcony and saw the lights on at Pistorius' place.

Prosecutors believe Pistorius attacked Steenkamp in the bedroom after the two had an argument (allegedly over his suspicion of her cheating on him) and she fled into the bathroom, locking herself in the toilet. Pistorius then opened fire, shooting her three times through the locked door, as bullet wounds were found in Steenkamp's head, arm and hip. The state alleges Steenkamp locked the door for a reason, as she was in fear of her life, due to Pistorius' attack.


Some in the press alleged Pistorius called a friend rather than an ambulance, implying he wasted crucial time when emergency medical services could have been summoned, potentially saving Steenkamp's life. However, it is estimated he called emergency services 20 minutes after the shooting.

Many news sources have cited police leaks in the case, which authorities have denied. Thus far, neither prosecutors or the police have publicly confirmed claims in the mainstream press of Steenkamp's skull being crushed with a cricket bat. It was stated today that other than the gunshot wounds found in Steenkamp's body, there was no other injury to her body.



This case marks a tragic turn of events regarding two promising lives - both Steenkamp and Pistorius - who had so much going for them. It is truly sad, as their lives have been destroyed. There is much to be learned from this case. Those who are truly paying attention will grasp those lessons and not walk down the same path.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Prosecutors In The Oscar Pistorius Murder Case Recreate The Shooting Death Of The Athlete's Girlfriend (Video)



Famous sprinter and double amputee, Oscar Pistorius, made another appearance in court today, charged with the death of his girlfriend, model Reeva Steenkamp. prosecutors painted a grim picture of how they believe Steenkamp died, during a fight with Pistorius.


Oscar Pistorius 

The description of the killing reveal prosecutor's theories that Steenkamp and Pistorius had an argument, which resulted in the athlete shooting her to death. 700 miles away from the courthouse, Steenkamp was laid to rest in a funeral attended by her family and friends.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Oscar Pistorius Should Be Placed On Suicide Watch


Oscar Pistorius in court

After being remanded into custody, in Pretoria, South Africa, on "premeditated charges" in the murder of his girlfriend, model, Reeva Steenkamp, sprinter Oscar Pistorius is facing a significant legal battle for his freedom. It has been stated, Pistorius' prosethtic legs will be confiscated in jail, as they can be classified as a weapons.

  
 
Reeva Steenkamp

With the loss of his girlfriend, name, career, sponsorship deals and freedom, Pistorius should be placed on suicide watch whilst in jail or if bail is granted in the case. The circumstances in his life dictate it. His emotional, tearful breakdown in court is also a sign of someone on the brink.

The Oscar Pistorius Murder Case Explodes With Claims Of An Affair, Steroids, Alcoholism And His Girlfriend's Skull Being Crushed By Cricket Bat


The Oscar Pistorius criminal case, regarding the shooting death of the double amputee Olympian and Paralympian's girlfriend, model and law graduate, Reeva Steenkamp, has taken some very serious and sad turns, as leaks in the press reveal explosive claims. Last week, on February 16, 2013, in the article "Oscar Pistorius Cries In Court As Charges For Killing His Girlfriend Changed To Premeditated Murder (Video)" the Judiciary Report stated, "The police have labeled it 'premeditated murder' due to something they have in their evidence files leading them to believe it is so."


Oscar Pistorius (center)

It appears the smoking gun in their evidence files has arrived, as the following day it was stated in the press, a cricket bat with blood on it was found at the crime scene, the track star's mansion in Pretoria, South Africa and the victim, Steenkamp, was found with a crushed skull and four gunshot wounds (to the head, hip, hand and chest). It is going to be very difficult to explain a crushed skull in a court of law.


Pistorius being perp walked

In a previous interview, prior to the shooting, Pistorius stated he keeps a cricket bat behind his bedroom door, an AK-47 machine gun by the window and a pistol by his bed, in crime plagued South Africa, where the rich have experienced a higher than usual amount of home invasion robberies.


What also complicates this tragic case is an allegation in the press today that late night texts and tweets between Skeenkamp and  ex-boyfriend, South Africa rugby player, Francios Hougaard, enraged Pistorius. Some are attempting to label her death a crime of passion on Valentine's Day. Steenkamp's iPad is being held as evidence regarding the claim.


To any man, especially a disabled man, often discriminated against by society, due to closed minded people, who would make a person with said medical condition feel like less of a man, being cheated on is devastating. However, one must always control one's response to such situations, keeping things in perspective and knowing you are just as good as anyone else.   

 

Francios Hougaard

The trouble does not end there for Pistorius, as it is also being reported the sprinter's home contained steroids and police ordered be tested for its use. If this is in fact the case and these allegations of cheating prove true, Pistorius could be stripped of the medals he has won in competition. 

Another report exists that excessive amounts of alcohol were found in Pistorius' home - a property police repeatedly were called to during "domestic violence" incidents. Three people have come forward in two separate allegations, stating Pistorius was drunk and threatened them. In a case involving two women at a Kings of Leon concert, they stated he was drunk, verbally abusive, called them lesbians and pushed them.


Crime scene inside Pistorius' Pretoria mansion in South Africa

In another incident, a friend of Pistorius' ex-girlfriend stated the athlete threatened to break his legs, believing something was going on between the two of them. He stated he was called to a meeting with police "colonels" where Pistorius showed up with a black eye, from getting into a fight with a friend the night before.  


Pistorius crying in court

If all of the aforementioned points are entered into court record, Pistorius will be in serious legal trouble and could lose his freedom. The picture it paints is one of an angry athlete, using steroids, getting drunk, having violent confrontations with female members of the public and harboring suspicions of girlfriends cheating on him. The irony is, prior to Steenkamp's death, Pistorius was repeatedly referred to in the press as a womanizer.