California Republican Calls Dem-Led Bill to Free Convicted Felons Serving Life Sentences Cruel for Victims' Families

Despite opposition from victims' families and elected officials, a bill proposing the release of convicted felons serving life sentences in California has stalled in the legislature. Here's a closer look at the controversy surrounding SB 94 and the concerns raised by those who oppose it.

A proposed California bill, SB 94, which sought to free convicted felons serving life sentences, has faced strong opposition from victims' families and Republican lawmakers. The bill, led by Democratic legislators, has stalled in the legislature, stirring debate about the implications of releasing violent criminals back into society.

One of the most notable cases facing potential release is that of Christopher Hubbart, a convicted serial rapist known as the "Pillowcase Rapist." Hubbart has been convicted of multiple counts of rape and other sex crimes, earning his nickname for using pillowcases to silence his victims.

California Republican Calls Dem-Led Bill to Free Convicted Felons Serving Life Sentences Cruel for Victims' Families

According to the Los Angeles District Attorney's office, Hubbart was convicted in 1973, 1982, and 1990 for a series of rapes and other sex crimes in Los Angeles and Santa Clara counties. Former Los Angeles County Sheriff John L. Scott described Hubbart as "the most prolific and violent rapist I have encountered in 45 years of California law enforcement."

Despite being convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment, Hubbart was released in 2014 with an ankle bracelet and placed in a home in Palmdale, California. This decision sparked protests and outrage from local residents, who feared for their safety.

California Republican Calls Dem-Led Bill to Free Convicted Felons Serving Life Sentences Cruel for Victims' Families

In 2016, Hubbart was taken back into custody for violating the terms of his release. However, in 2021, the Department of State Hospitals recommended that he be conditionally released, clearing the path for his pending release next month.

Victims' families and advocate groups have vehemently opposed Hubbart's release. Cheryl Holbrook, a survivor of Hubbart's sexual assault, believes that he will re-offend if released. "He told us he will re-offend again. He'll do it again," Holbrook said.

California Republican Calls Dem-Led Bill to Free Convicted Felons Serving Life Sentences Cruel for Victims' Families

Holbrook has been fighting against Hubbart's release since 2013 and has raised concerns about the proposed release location in the Antelope Valley. She points out that the area lacks proper infrastructure, including reliable cellular service and emergency response capabilities.

"The rural nature of this foothill community and its challenging terrain have impeded the development and availability of a robust communications infrastructure... Should any elements of his conditional release require the use of these types of technologies to supervise or monitor Mr. Hubbart, failure is possible…and imminent," Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger wrote in a letter opposing the release.

California Republican Calls Dem-Led Bill to Free Convicted Felons Serving Life Sentences Cruel for Victims' Families

Furthermore, Holbrook and other residents fear that Hubbart's release will put young girls at risk. "Is he going to come and try to find us because he knows who we are?" asked Holbrook. "Or is he going to rape a little girl again? It terrifies me."

The Department of State Hospitals has not provided any justification for recommending Hubbart's release, citing patient privacy laws. However, a court hearing is scheduled for October 1 to determine the exact location of Hubbart's release.

California Republican Calls Dem-Led Bill to Free Convicted Felons Serving Life Sentences Cruel for Victims' Families

"Continuing to release sexually violent predators into underserved communities like the Antelope Valley is both irresponsible and unjust," said District Attorney George Gascón. "Our deputy district attorneys will persist in opposing Mr. Hubbart’s placement in the Antelope Valley."

The controversy surrounding Hubbart's case has highlighted the complex issues surrounding the release of convicted criminals, particularly those with violent offenses. While some advocate for rehabilitation and a second chance, others prioritize public safety and victim protection. The ongoing debate over SB 94 and Hubbart's release is likely to continue as California lawmakers balance these competing concerns.

California Republican Calls Dem-Led Bill to Free Convicted Felons Serving Life Sentences Cruel for Victims' Families