Pistorius court hears calls for house arrest

It could be days before Oscar Pistorius finds out his fate, as the sentencing hearing of the Olympic athlete continues.

Pistorius was found guilty of culpable homicide last month over the 20-13 death of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

He could face up to 15 years in jail.

Yesterday, witnesses for the defence appealed for leniency in sentencing.

Joel Maringa, a social worker at South Africa's Department of Corrective Services, called for the double-amputee to serve his sentence under house arrest, telling the court:

"That the accused be placed under house arrest for the duration of the sentence, with due consideration of his cooperation in general..."

He also called for Pistorius to serve 16 hours of community service a month.

The athlete's manager, Peet van Zyl, told the court the athlete's career was likely to be over regardless of the sentence.

"I can categorically state at this point in time, all [sporting] contracts have been terminated."

Prosecutor Gerrie Nel said house arrest would be a "shockingly inappropriate" sentence considering the severity of the crime.

Judge Thokozile Masipa has wide latitude in deciding the sentencing.

Both sides will be able to appeal the decision.


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