Gavin Newsom’s Controversial Parole Law Backfires After The Release Of High Profile Abusers

A recent bill about elderly parole release in California became a point of debate in the California State Legislature. The policy, which was primarily introduced under Governor Gavin Newsom, has now become a top priority for other Democrats to overturn it.

On Tuesday, both political parties agreed and advanced a new bill that would limit the age of eligibility for elderly parole hearings. The existing rule had so far allowed inmates over 50 who had served at least 20 years in prison to be granted release. The new proposal put forth by Democrat Stephanie Nguyen will however raise the age limit to 65.

The sudden wake-up call for raising the age of eligibility for elderly parole came after two distinct cases of early release for serious criminals were noted. These were high-profile s-- offenders and abusers, known for serially molesting young children.

For instance, Sacramento County’s most notorious s-- offender David Allen Funston was granted parole in February at the age of 64. His criminal record has more than eight kidnapping and molestation charges. These included seven girls and one boy, all of whom he lured in using Barbie dolls and candies.

Another case of early elderly parole was last month, of Gregory Lee Vogelsang. In March, the 57-year-old was released despite having a 300-year sentence to his name.

He was convicted of s---ally harassing young children, kidnapping, and even molesting them back in the 90s. His crime was notorious around the Sacramento area, and Vogelsang targeted only kids between the ages of 5 and 11.

Democrat Stephanie Nguyen highlighted the need for making changes in the elderly parole law. In her words, “When someone commits violent s--ual crimes, especially against children, the consequences must reflect the seriousness of that harm. AB 2727 ensures that individuals convicted of the most serious sexual offences are not eligible for elderly parole.”

Besides the increase of the age limit, the new policy also articulates that elderly parole wouldn’t apply to those convicted with high profile se**** abuse crimes against children.

Meanwhile, the district attorney also backed the new bill proposed by Stephanie Nguyen. Thien Ho remarked, “Recent changes to elder parole laws break our promise to victims and endanger our most vulnerable—our children. Our community deserves better.”

Assembly member Nick Schultz further discussed how important the bill was to restore justice to the victims. In his words, “The scales of justice should be balanced. It shouldn’t be weighted so heavily that one side feels they have no voice at the table.”

The news about this policy change has also brought back criticism of Gavin Newsom. Republicans accused him of having a softer outlook towards criminal law, which creates a major loophole.

The bill was backed by several other Democrats in California in the legislative committee. It will take effect the minute Governor Newsom signs the bill. He has until August to announce his decision on the changes to the elderly parole law.