The parents of Reeva Steenkamp said they were “quite surprised” that confidential payments from South African runner Oscar Pistorius were disclosed during his sentencing hearing.

A statement released by their lawyer Wednesday said Pistorius had requested the $550 monthly payments not be revealed.

The athlete offered the payments last year after hearing Steenkamp’s parents were having financial difficulties. 

The statement said they intended to repay the funds, likely deducting them from any possible civil settlement, and will now be returning the money because they have decided not to pursue a civil case against Pistorius.

Prosecutor Gerrie Nel revealed Tuesday that Steenkamp’s family had rejected another offer of $34,000.  He said the family turned down the payment because they did not want “blood money.”

The sentencing hearing continued Wednesday with Nel questioning social worker Annette Vergeer, who has recommended Pistorius be placed under house arrest rather than being sent to prison. Nel called her suggestion a “shockingly inappropriate” sentence.

Judge Thokozile Masipa could sentence Pistorius to up to 15 years in prison.  The hearing is expected to last for several days.
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