NPA to appeal Pistorius' conviction and sentence

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will appeal both the conviction and sentence imposed on Oscar Pistorius by Judge Thokozile Masipa as had been widely predicted by legal experts across the country.

28 Oct 2014

Judge Thokozile Masipa's conviction and sentence imposed on Oscar Pistorius for the killing of Reeva Steenkamp, will be appealed by the National Prosecuting Authority. Image: SA People

The NPA issued a statement confirming that since 20 0ctober, the prosecution team, Advocate Gerrie Nel and Advocate Andrea Johnson, have been hard at work studying the judgment, researching it and consulting a number of legal experts for expert opinions on whether or not there are sufficient grounds to appeal both the judgement and sentence.

"Today we announce that the decision to appeal both the conviction and sentence," said a statement from the NPA.

Pistorius was convicted of culpable homicide and sentence to five years in jail for killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. It is not clear whether other charges against him will be included in the appeal.

"The appeal on conviction is based on the question of law. The merits and the demerits of the NPA's argument in this regard will become evident when we file papers for leave to appeal," said the NPA.

The NPA said its team of prosecutors is preparing the necessary papers, which will be filed within the next few days.

Source: SAnews.gov.za

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