Final arguments in Pistorius case, sentencing Tuesday

PRETORIA, South Africa, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Oscar Pistorius' sentencing hearing ended Friday in Pretoria, South Africa, with the judge expected to deliver the sentence Tuesday.

Pistorius, 27, was convicted of culpable homicide in the 2013 shooting death of girlfriend Reva Steenkamp. A double amputee and Olympic and Paralympic sprinter, he was regarded as a South African hero and celebrity. His trial for murder ended with a conviction on the lesser charge, and of discharging a firearm. The five-day sentencing hearing included testimony from several witnesses and varying recommendations for his sentence, ranging from community service to ten years' imprisonment.

"The minimum term that society will be happy with will be 10 years imprisonment," Chief prosecutor Gerrie Nel told the hearing. "This is a serious matter. The negligence borders on intent. Ten years is the minimum."

Pistorious' defense team noted in final arguments he had shown remorse during the trial, offered payments to Steenkamp's family and has no financial resources left.

"There is nothing left of this man, but it's far worse than that. He lost a person he loved, his self-respect, most of his friends, his career, all his properties, all his money. He's lost everything. Is this a person you must remove from society? ... We say no," defense attorney Barry Roux said.

There is no legal maximum penalty for the crime of which Pistorius was convicted, but legal analysts have said 15 years is typical. Judge Thokozile Masipa is expected to rule Tuesday.