In a bewildering twist of justice, California’s elderly parole program has paved the way for the release of a 64-year-old convicted child predator described by a judge as “the monster parents fear the most.” This man’s horrifying crimes span 16 counts of kidnapping and child molestation for which he was handed not one, but three 25-years-to-life sentences, with an additional 20 years for good measure. However, in a move that defies logic and public safety, the state’s Board of Parole Hearings has decided to let him walk free. Apparently, the passage of time and a few gray hairs suffice for absolution in the Golden State.
Governor Gavin Newsom has reportedly disagreed with this farcical conclusion, yet his hands, it seems, are tied. The parole board operates independently, and in nonhomicide cases like this one, the governor lacks the authority to overturn its decision. Newsom referred the case back to the board earlier this year, but the board reaffirmed their recommendation for parole, leaving one to wonder just what criteria need to be met for someone to be considered a continuing threat to society.
Victims and local law enforcement alike are up in arms over this decision. The local county sheriff has voiced his concerns loudly, questioning why unelected parole board members hold such power over community safety. Furthermore, a victim publicly shared how this predator’s actions have left a deep-seated trauma, underscoring that fears of recidivism are not without foundation. The victim has expressed disbelief that someone who continues to harbor dangerous fantasies is considered rehabilitated enough to be reintroduced into society.
The law allows for those who have served over 20 years and are above 50 to be considered for parole under the elderly parole program. Yet, it’s a narrative fitting of an Orwellian dystopia that such laws could allow a man with a documented attraction to children to roam free. This case highlights the critical importance of ensuring that parole boards are staffed with qualified individuals who truly understand the risks these offenders continue to pose. It also begs the question of whether California lawmakers will finally close the loopholes that enable such lapses in judgment.
This travesty calls for strong leadership, and it’s time for Governor Newsom to channel his political clout and turn his disapproval into action. While he may not have the power to directly reverse the board’s ruling, he certainly possesses a podium from which to rally support for legislative changes. There’s a reason why one party is often perceived as soft on crime, and this debacle serves as yet another illustration of the public’s exasperation with policies that prioritize bureaucracy over the safety of our children. It’s time for California’s leaders to take a definitive stance and ensure that monsters of this nature remain where they belong: behind bars.
