INTRO: Proceedings in the sentencing hearings of Paralynpic athlete Oscar Pistorius were adjourned several times today when a family member broke down in tears as she described the family's suffering after the death of Reeva Steenkamp. Pistorius has been found guilty of culpable homicide (manslaughter) for the shooting and killing Steenkamp in February last year.
The court is hearing arguments this week in mitigation or aggravation of sentence.
Steenkamp's cousin, Kim Martin, told the court of the day she heard her cousin had been shot by Oscar Pistorius. She broke down as she explained how a radio DJ broke the news as she and her husband drove to work ...
IN: "And then he said ..."
OUT: "...take an adjournment"
DURATION: 37"
COURT SOUND1: http://www.fsnradionews.com/feeds/1015courtmartin-ga-sound.mp3
Kim Martin also told the court she had asked her uncle and aunt, Reeva Steenkamp's parents, if they would object to her testifying for the State in the sentencing hearings.
IN: "They said to me ... .. ."
OUT: "...would lose it"
DURATION: 26"
Sentencing arguments continue on the Pretoria High Court on Thursday.