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Parole Decision

By Kent Scheidegger et al.

The California Supreme Court today, 4-3, overturned Gov. Schwarzenegger's decision to deny parole to Sandra Lawrence, who murdered her lover's wife and then spent 11 years on the lam before surrendering in 1982. Justice Ming Chin wrote the dissent: The Governor carefully considered whether petitioner, Sandra Davis Lawrence, is suitable for parole. He issued a reasoned report that assessed petitioner?s case individually. The report considered the relevant factors ? both those supporting parole and those weighing against parole. It recognized the progress petitioner has made over the years that weighs in favor of parole. Nevertheless, balancing these factors, the Governor concluded ?that her release from prison would pose an unreasonable risk of danger to society? and reversed the finding of the Board of Parole Hearings (Board) that she was suitable for parole...continue to full post

Full post as published by Crime and Consequences on August 21, 2008 (boomark / email).