Expert says Oscar Pistorius needs to accept ‘regular’ job after his release on parole
An expert has claimed that Oscar Pistorius needs to be ‘realistic’ in finding an ‘average job’ following his parole release in January…
A forensic pathologist believes that Oscar Pistorius should set his sights on a “regular” job following his release on parole three months ago. The expert also believes the man convicted of killing his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp, should “lower his standards” from his previous lifestyle.
According to reports, the former gold medallist is currently looking for employment as he adjusts to his new life.
Last week, Pistorius made headlines after he was branded “too toxic” by a member of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) when he approached them for work in the sporting sector.
Pistorius was released from prison on 5 January after serving half of his 15-year and five months murder sentence. He will now complete the remainder of his term while out on parole under the supervision of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS).
EXPERT ON OSCAR PISTORIUS JOB OPTIONS
According to the New York Post, Oscar Pistorius approached the IPC for a job following his parole release.
However, the organisation – which Pistorius was proudly a part of for many years – rejected his bid, with one member naming him “too toxic to work with.”
Speaking on Talk TV last week, forensic pathologist Keri Nixon claimed that Pistorius should be “realistic” with his job search while on parole.
She continued: “He’s got a criminal history now, so there will be certain communities he can’t work with. So obviously, anything where he needs a DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service or criminal history check).
“He needs to reduce his expectations and realise he’s going to be doing an average job.
Image via ALON SKUY/AFP
“He’s been volunteering at his church [which] he has fixed up…so a manual [labour] job. I don’t think he’s going to back to work as an athlete…or the organisation. He can’t work with children because of restrictions.
“So a pretty standard job…a nine to five, going and working as the majority.
According to Reuters, Pistorius is required to attend programmes on gender-based violence. He must also continue therapy sessions on anger management as part of his parole conditions.
FROM MULTI-MILLION NET WORTH TO JOBLESS
According to The Richest, Oscar Pistorius had a net worth of $5 million (over R90 million) thanks to a lucrative sporting career and endorsements.
However, in 2016, his lawyer, Barry Roux, told the Pretoria High Court that the star athlete was “broke.”
Oscar – known for his sprawling Pretoria mansion and multiple fast cars – sold much of his assets due to legal fees associated with his murder trial. According to eNCA, his high-profile court case cost him R100 000 in fees daily!
WHAT JOBS ARE AVAILABLE FOR EX-OFFENDERS?
According to the Department of Labour, there are a number of programmes implemented to aid ex-offenders in finding employment.
They include sectors like construction, manufacturing, food services, and many others.
According to DCS Minister Ronald Lamola, inmates are also trained in artisan skills such as plumbing, tiling, bricklaying, and mechanics to help them find skilled work.
A departmental handbook available to ex-offenders reads: “Most employers are reluctant, or do not want to employ ex-offenders, or anyone with a criminal record.
“You must not be surprised that you may run into a lot of roadblocks in this regard.
“That should not discourage you at all, but rather keep on trying until doors open”.
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