The Paralympic gold medalist was jailed last year for the death of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. Pistorius was convicted of culpable homicide, the South African equivalent of manslaughter, and was sentenced to five years in prison. However, according to the country's guidelines for non-dangerous prisoners, the 29-year-old is now eligible for release.
"Incarceration of 10 months for taking a life is simply not enough," said Steenkamp's parents earlier this year. Pistorius is expected to stay at his uncle's mansion in Pretoria once released, and will likely be allowed to leave the house for work, community service and important family events.
Pistorius killed Steenkamp, who would have turned 32 this Wednesday, on Valentine's Day in 2013 when he fired four shots into the locked door of a toilet cubicle at his home in Pretoria. During his trial, he claimed that he mistook his girlfriend for an intruder.
The state is appealing against the verdict, arguing that Pistorius knew someone was behind the toilet door, and fired with the intent to kill. "We filed the appeal today," National Prosecuting Authority spokesman Luvuyo Mfaku told the Daily Mail.
The appeal hearing is due to begin in November. If convicted, Pistorius could face at least 15 years in prison. "Given he fired four shots through a door when he knew someone was inside, I think there is a good chance the appeal will be successful," lawyer William Booth told Reuters.
Reeva Steenkamp & Paralympic gold medalist Oscar Pistorius
Tagged in Oscar Pistorius Reeva Steenkamp