California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing backlash after the state parole board ordered the release of serial child rapist David Allen Funston, who was serving three life terms for kidnapping and molesting multiple children. Funston, described as “the monster parents fear the most” by a judge, used toys and candy to lure children into his car before assaulting them.
Despite the heinous nature of Funston’s crimes, the California Parole Board made the decision to release him, sparking outrage from law enforcement, prosecutors, and the public. Many have pointed fingers at Governor Newsom for the parole board’s decision. Newsom, however, attempted to shift the blame by stating that the Board of Parole Hearings is an independent agency and that he has no authority to reverse their decision.
Former Sacramento District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, who prosecuted Funston, called out Newsom for signing a law in 2020 that lowered the age of parole eligibility from 60 to 50 years old. This law, introduced by Democrat Phil Ting of San Francisco, did not make exceptions for violent sex offenders like Funston, reflecting the broader trend of criminal justice reform.
Despite efforts by Republicans to amend the law to exclude violent offenders, Democrats blocked these changes citing concerns about the cost of keeping criminals in prison for their full sentences. As a result, Funston’s impending release highlights the consequences of lenient parole laws and the failures of the political system to prioritize public safety.
The release of a dangerous criminal like Funston is a disgrace for which Governor Newsom and his party are held accountable. Democratic voters should take note of these failures when considering their choices in future elections. It is imperative to prioritize public safety and hold elected officials accountable for their actions in order to prevent similar injustices from occurring in the future.
