The judge who issued Oscar Pistorius a not-guilty finding for murder — but guilty verdict for culpable homicide — is now facing harsh criticisms and even threats, and police have circled to protect her.
South African residents say many were shocked at Judge Thokozile Masipa’s ruling, which in essence said that Pistorius, a former Olympian runner, was negligent in the shooting death of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp but that he did not intend to kill her. That follows the line of defense Pistorius presented during his trial — that he mistook Ms. Steenkamp for an intruder when he shot her through a closed bathroom door, Fox News reported.
Some legal analysts say Pistorius should have been convicted of a lesser murder charge because he knew that his firing of four bullets into the door could lead to the death of the person on the other side, Fox News reported.
Judge Masipa issued her ruling on Friday and since then has been subjected to widespread criticisms that have grown intense, to the point of outright threats. Authorities didn’t disclose the exact nature of the threats to the media.
Fox News reported that police have stepped up their protection details around the judge, who is due to return to court on Oct. 13 to issue her sentence to Pistorius. Pistorius is currently free on bail and faces up to 15 years in prison. He could also be given a suspended sentence and a fine, depending on the judge’s decision, Fox News reported.
Pistorius might also be able to compete in athletics for South Africa again, depending once again on the sentencing ruling of the judge.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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