State opposes Oscar's bail extension

The State opposed the extension of Oscar Pistorius's bail after he was found guilty of culpable homicide in the High Court in Pretoria on Friday.

"It is my respectful argument that it is not in the interest of justice to permit an accused who has been convicted in the high court on a matter of negligently killing the deceased... bail.

"[He] should not be released on bail," said prosecutor Gerrie Nel.

Nel said Pistorius disposed of three properties while he was out on bail during the trial.

"He does not have a house."

Also, Pistorius was involved in an "incident" at a nightclub in the early morning hours in July which caused him to be asked to leave.

The family of the accused then admitted there was an incident and indicated to the media in a press release that his actions were "unwise" and underlied "some of his self-harming behaviour", said Nel.

He also said the accused may be a suicide risk.

Nel said this was a "serious case" lengthy imprisonment probable.

"Now he knows for a fact... and that imprisonment is probable."

But Pistorius's lawyer Barry Roux denied that he was a suicide risk and argued for his bail to be extended.

"We submit the accused was on bail on the serious allegation of premeditated murder; he complied with his bail conditions.

 

There is really no reason... not to allow him out on bail," said Roux.

Judge Thokozile Masipa adjourned the court until 12.30pm.

 

 

(File photo: Gallo Images)