Steenkamp's family to pay back Pistorius
Reeva Steenkamp's family said Wednesday they don't intend to file a civil claim against Olympian Oscar Pistorius for killing their daughter and they will pay back money he lent to them for living expenses.
Pistorius was found guilty of the culpable homicide — similar to manslaughter — of Steenkamp last month, but was cleared of murder charges.
He is in court this week for a sentencing hearing that may see him get jail time of up to 15 years. He may also get off with a suspended sentence or fine.
Barry and June Steenkamp received monthly payments of about $550 from Pistorius following the death of their daughter. They turned down a separate offer of $34,000 he tried to give them after he sold his car, characterizing that payment as "blood money."
In a statement that was read out in court on Wednesday, the Steenkamps said they will pay Pistorius back about $10,000 over the next two years.
"When the parents were made aware of this offer, they considered it carefully but decided, for various reasons, that they did not want any payment from Mr. Pistorius," Dup de Bruyn, the family's lawyer said, referring to the larger sum. "This is also why we were instructed to advise that no civil claim would be instituted."
Reeva Steemkamp, a model and law graduate, helped support her parents financially, but when she was killed they encountered money problems.
Pistorius, too, has come under serve financial strain as a result of his lengthy trial. He has had to sell assets including his luxury home where Steenkamp was killed.
Prosecutors says the athlete should be given jail time, while his defense maintain house arrest and community service would be a suitable punishment.
Reeva Steenkamp's cousin testified during Wednesday's hearing, recalling how Steenkamp was the first baby she ever held.
"Her (Reeva's) dad told her she must work hard because her life can end in a split second," Kim Martin said.
Contributing: Associated Press