Oscar Pistorius not a "high risk" to society: Forensic Psychologist
Breakfast with Martin Bester spoke to investigative forensic psychologist Dr Gérard Labuschagne about Oscar Pistorius’s upcoming parole hearing.
Around seven years ago, Dr Gérard Labuschagne was called into the courtroom by Advocate Gerrie Nel as the infamous Paralympian Oscar Pistorius was facing prosecution for the murder of his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp.
In 2015, Pistorius was convicted of murder and sentenced to 15 years in prison after he shot and killed Steenkamp on Valentine’s Day in 2013.
Pistorius will now make his bid for freedom before the parole board at the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Tshwane.
READ: Thabo Bester could have left South Africa: Forensic Psychologist
His parole hearing will take place on Friday, 31 March 2023.
According to investigative forensic psychologist Dr Labuschagne, the parole board will look at the former athlete's rehabilitation process as well as the impact his early release would have on Steenkamp’s loved ones before making a decision.
When asked whether he thinks Pistorius is a threat to society, Dr Labuschagne said that he believes Pistorius is not at high risk of “doing something like this again”.
“I don’t think he [Oscar] is a high risk. So, no, I don’t think he is at high risk to do something like this again.”
READ: Martin Bester clears up alleged relation to Thabo Bester
Dr Labuschagne added that while the board decides the outcome of Pistorius’ parole hearing, they still consider the input of Steenkamp’s family.
According to reports, June Steenkamp will attend Pistorius's parole hearing. Both she and her husband, Barry Steenkamp, are said to oppose Pistorius’s parole bid through their victim-offender statement and written representation.
What do you think?
Tune in to the 'Breakfast with Martin Bester', weekdays from 06:00 - 09:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.