The public prosecutor in South Africa is appealing the manslaughter conviction handed down to athlete Oscar Pistorius. It is believed the office will be seeking a murder ruling for the killing of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.
The National Prosecuting Authority filed an application to appeal the verdict and five-year sentence, spokesman Nathi Mncube said.
TODAY NPA FILES APPLICATION FOR LEAVE TO APPEAL OSCAR PISTORIUS JUDGEMENT AND SENTENCE
— Nathi Mncube (@mncube_nathi) November 4, 2014
Pistorius (27) started serving his prison sentence on October 21st after a seven month trial.
Judge Thokozile Masipa acquitted him of murder and found him guilty of a lesser charge of culpable homicide, for shooting Ms Steenkamp (29) through a toilet door in his home.
As things stand, the Olympic runner is eligible for release after 10 months so he can complete his sentence under house arrest.
Sentencing options available to the judge in a culpable homicide case included up to 15 years in jail, a suspended sentence, a correctional supervision or fine.
Pistorius' legal team argued during the trial that he mistook Ms Steenkamp for an intruder and believed they were both in danger.
During the trial, state prosecutor Gerrie Nel had argued that only 10 years' imprisonment would satisfy the public.
He said that any lesser sentence could result in a widespread loss of faith in the justice system.
Known as Blade Runner because of his carbon-fibre prosthetics, Pistorius achieved global recognition at the London 2012 Olympics when he reached the semi-finals of the 400m against able-bodied athletes.
