Pistorius Is Granted Bail

Judge says he's not a flight risk
By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 22, 2013 3:55 AM CST
Updated Feb 22, 2013 8:27 AM CST
Pistorius Bail Decision Could Be Delayed
Oscar Pistorius stands in the dock during his bail hearing.   (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe)

Oscar Pistorius has been granted bail, CNN reports. The judge said he found fault with arguments on both sides but ultimately decided that the double-amputee Olympian is not a flight risk. He set bail at about $113,000 and demanded that Pistorius hand over his passports. In closing arguments before the judge's decision, prosecutors held that Pistorius' version of events, in which he mistook slain girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp for an intruder, is tough to swallow. "The only reason you fire four shots is to kill," said one, according to the BBC. "On his own version, he is bound to be convicted."

The defense, however, stood by Pistorius' explanation. "He had no intent to kill Reeva," lawyer Barry Roux said. What's more, he's not a flight risk—his prosthetics would keep him from getting through airport security without being noticed, Roux added. Pistorius was trembling during the proceeding, reports AP. His next court appearance has been set for June 4. (More Oscar Pistorius stories.)

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