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Pistorius guilty of culpable homicide

– Shock and relief –

Legal experts had earlier voiced surprise that Pistorius was found not guilty of murder, and predicted the case would likely not rest with the verdict.

Wits University criminal law professor James Grant said the state could appeal if they believe there has been an legal error.

“Everyone is a little surprised,” said lawyer Audrey Berndt, zeroing in Masipa’s finding that Pistorius could not have known that firing four hollow point bullets through the bathroom door would have killed someone.

“She should have explained her reasoning a little more” said Berndt.

Masipa — whose career has taken her from a childhood in a poor Johannesburg township to the country’s high court — had described Pistorius as a “very poor witness” who was “evasive” when questioned.

Pistorius was also convicted of one of three gun charges.

Masipa said Pistorius was guilty of negligently handling a gun in restaurant, but acquitted him on two other firearm charges.

Pistorius was found guilty of asking to see a gun in Tasha’s restaurant and while handling it under the table the firearm went off.

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“He may not have intentionally pulled the trigger… that does not absolve him of the crime of negligently handling a firearm,” said Masipa.

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