In an interesting twist in the Oscar Pistorius trial, the infamous Paralympian will undergo a psychological evaluation, and this could be a huge factor in his fate.

But how exactly would this influence the trial?

Kelly Phelps, a senior lecturer in the public law department at the University of Cape Town and a legal expert observing the case, delved into how the results from the evaluations could impact on the verdict, and sentencing, if he’s found guilty, of course.

An “extreme” conclusion in which the panel decides Pistorius was unable to distinguish between right and wrong, or act in accordance with that understanding, because of an anxiety disorder when he killed Steenkamp. Such an outcome, according to Phelps, would result in a verdict of “not guilty by reason of mental illness”.

[…]

In terms of the Criminal Procedure Act, a person who commits a crime and suffers from a mental illness or mental defect which makes them incapable of appreciating the wrongfulness of the act; or acting in accordance with an appreciation of the wrongfulness of the act, shall not be criminally responsible for the act. [News24]

So…..what does this all mean?

If the results of Pistorius’ psychological evaluation are severe, he could be detained in a psychiatric hospital or prison. He could even be treated as an outpatient, released subject to conditions from the court, or released unconditionally.

If ever there was a moment to become a basket-case……

[Source] News24