Lawmakers, Victims’ Advocates Rally Against Early Release of Convicted Child Predator

SACRAMENTO —  Republican lawmakers, victims’ advocates, and former law enforcement officials gathered outside the Board of Parole Hearings Wednesday morning to oppose the potential early release of convicted child predator Gregory Lee Vogelsang, warning that California’s parole laws are failing to protect the public.

The rally took place ahead of an en banc hearing reviewing Vogelsang’s case.

Vogelsang was convicted in 1999 of dozens of child molestation charges involving five boys, including kidnapping, and was sentenced to 355 years to life in prison. After serving 27 years, he is eligible for parole under California’s Elderly Parole Program.

Speakers said the case reflects a failure in state law, where violent offenders can be considered for release regardless of the severity of their crimes.

Assemblyman Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) issued the following statement:

“The Parole Board has failed to protect our community and is putting more children at risk by allowing these monsters to walk free. The Legislature must act to ensure violent predators are never released early.”

Speakers included Assemblymembers Josh Hoover, David Tangipa, and Jeff Gonzalez, along with Senators Brian Jones, Shannon Grove, and Roger Niello. Former Sacramento County District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert and former Sacramento County Sheriff John McGinness also attended.

Participants pointed to California’s Elderly Parole Program, which allows individuals age 50 and older who have served at least 20 years to be considered for release.

Lawmakers said they are advancing legislation to raise the eligibility age to 65 and block early release for violent sex offenders.

Watch the full press conference here. View photos here.

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