A magistrate granted bail today Friday to Oscar Pistorius, citing a number of problems with the police investigation into the death of the Olympic sprinter's girlfriend.
"I come to the conclusion that the accused has made a case to be released on bail," said Chief Magistrate Desmond Nair, eliciting a celebratory cry of "Yes!" from the courtroom.
Nair said the former chief investigator in the case, Hilton Botha, had made "several errors and concessions" during his testimony.
Specifics of Pistorius' release have not yet been announced.
The prosecution had several notable missteps during the bail hearing, including the removal of the lead investigator, who had earlier acknowledged under questioning from defense attorney Barry Roux that police could have contaminated the crime scene and had failed to properly catalog evidence.
Roux said the track star needs regular medical treatment for his stumps and his prostheses require routine maintenance.
Prosecutor Gerrie Nel told the judge in final arguments before a packed Pretoria courtroom that Pistorius didn't deserve bail.
"He must realize that long-term imprisonment is almost guaranteed. He might think he'll be acquitted.
"Mr. Pistorius cannot go unnoticed through an airport due to his legs," he told the judge.
Pistorius, eyes red, appeared emotional and drained.
At one point, he sat with his eyes closed and shoulders shaking as tears rolled down his face. At other times, he stared straight ahead.
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