Скачать или смотреть Oscar Pistorius' family welcome psychiatric test ruling

Following the judge's order that Oscar Pistorius should undergo psychiatric tests, the athlete's uncle says that the family approved of the court's "commitment of using every avenue to ensure a fair trial".

The judge overseeing the murder trial of Oscar Pistorius on Wednesday ordered the double-amputee athlete to undergo psychiatric tests, meaning that the trial proceedings will be delayed.

The decision by Judge Thokozile Masipa to refer Pistorius for mental observation under the 1977 Criminal Procedure Act followed a request for a psychiatric evaluation by the chief prosecutor, Gerrie Nel.

Judge Masipa noted that having Pistorius evaluated as an outpatient would be preferable as the referral for psychiatric analysis was not meant to punish him, and acknowledged that trial proceedings would be delayed for an unspecified amount of time.

She said that "this is not about anyone's convenience, but rather about whether justice has been served," adding that she would provide details about her decision in court the following Tuesday.
Nel, the prosecutor, had previously referred to a period of 30 days for a psychiatric evaluation.

Any panel of experts that assesses Pistorius would likely take additional time to compile a report and submit it to the court. The
trial started on March 3.

Oscar Pistorius's uncle, Arnold Pistorius, welcomed Judge Masipa's ruling.

"As a family we are comforted by the thoroughness and detail of this judgement and Judge Masipa's commitment using every avenue to ensure a fair trial. It's about a fair trial. It re-affirms our confidence in the South African justice system," he said.


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