The prosecution has been pushing for a more severe sentence for Oscar Pistorius, 31, for the murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine’s Day back in 2014. Justice has now been achieved for Steenkamp’s family, after Pistorius’ short, six-year Sentence has now been increased to 15 years, which, after time served, equals 13 years and five months. Meanwhile, the South African media is reporting that Pistorius’ brother is “shattered” by the prolonged sentence.

Appeal brings Pistorius a doubled sentence

As reported by the New York Times, the case was heard in the South African Supreme Court of Appeal on Friday, November 24, where after hearing the prosecution, Pistorius was handed the minimum sentence of 15 years for his crime.

After subtracting the time already served, which includes 10 months under house arrest, the former Paralympian is now looking at more than 13 years behind bars.

Pistorius was arrested after killing his girlfriend by firing four shots through the closed bathroom door of his home on February 14, 2014. At the time, he claimed he believed Steenkamp to be an intruder. The court initially sentenced him to six years behind bars for culpable homicide, justifying the short sentence due to Pistorius’ remorse over the crime.

Prosecutors were appalled at what they believed to be a “shockingly lenient” sentence and went on to lodge an appeal.

Activists for women’s rights were also up in arms, saying the lenient sentence sent out the wrong message, while the murder rates in South Africa are among the highest in the world. After Pistorius served ten months of his sentence, he was released from prison and placed under house arrest, where he has been ever since. He was reportedly not in the court when the ruling was made on Friday.

The Steenkamp family have finally found justice over Reeva’s death

Speaking on behalf of the Steenkamp family, Tania Koen said the sentencing was a very emotional thing for them, but they do say the lengthened sentence has confirmed their trust in South Africa’s justice system.

However, Carl Pistorius, brother to Oscar, said on Friday that he is heartbroken, shattered and “gutted” by the ruling and his brother’s increased sentence.

As reported by Times Live, Carl took to Twitter to air his shock over the sentence.

However, one Twitter user responded to his message, saying Steenkamp’s family is no doubt experiencing the same feelings over their “incomprehensible loss.” Carl then responded by saying Reeva’s death was also a great loss to the Pistorius family.
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