Victims of violent offenders in California are expressing their distress over a recent change in the state’s law that allows rapists and murderers to potentially walk free decades earlier than originally expected. This change, which expanded the criteria for “elder parole,” now permits inmates to apply for early release at the age of 50, after serving just 20 years of their sentence.
Previously, inmates were only eligible for elder parole after serving at least 25 years and reaching the age of 60. However, the new law, enacted in 2021 to address prison overcrowding, has raised concerns among victims and their families.
Jennifer Carvalho, a victim of rape, wrote a heartfelt letter to Governor Gavin Newsom, urging him to intervene in the case of her rapist, Thomas Martinez, who is now 54 years old. Martinez, who was sentenced to 56 years to life for assaulting Carvalho and another woman, has become eligible for elder parole under the new law.
Carvalho vividly recalled the terrifying experience of being held at knifepoint by Martinez, fearing for her life and the safety of her son. She initially felt a sense of security knowing that Martinez would be behind bars for life. However, the news of his potential early release has shattered that peace of mind.
Similarly, Karen Huestis, whose mother was murdered by George Bouras in 1981, has been advocating against the elder parole law. Bouras, who was sentenced to 25 years to life for the brutal killing, has since been released on parole, causing Huestis to live in constant fear.
Sacramento District Attorney Thien Ho has criticized the elder parole policy, labeling it as a “ticking time bomb” that endangers public safety. Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen also expressed disgust at the law, calling for a reassessment of the age criteria for parole eligibility.
The concerns raised by victims and officials highlight the need for a thorough review of the elder parole law in California. The promises made to victims and their families during sentencing must be upheld, and public safety should be paramount in any decisions regarding early release for violent offenders.
