California Republicans Demand Newsom Act After Child Rapist's Parole

Outrage over release of serial offender David Allen Funston under state's Elderly Parole Program

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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California Republicans are calling on Governor Gavin Newsom to remove and replace members of the state's parole board after they approved the release of serial child rapist David Allen Funston, 64, who was convicted in 1999 on 16 counts of kidnapping and molesting young children. Despite receiving three life sentences, Funston was granted parole under the state's Elderly Parole Program, which allows inmates over 50 who have served 20 years to petition for release.

Why it matters

The decision to release Funston has sparked outrage among lawmakers and law enforcement, who argue the convicted predator still poses a threat to children. This case highlights ongoing debates over criminal justice reform, victim's rights, and the balance between rehabilitation and public safety.

The details

Funston, a Sacramento-area resident, was convicted of kidnapping and sexually assaulting at least eight children - seven girls and one boy - luring them with toys and candy. One 5-year-old victim was abandoned 50 miles from home. Despite receiving three life sentences, Funston was granted parole under California's Elderly Parole Program, which was expanded in 2020 to allow inmates over 50 who have served 20 years to petition for release.

  • Funston was convicted in 1999 on 16 counts of kidnapping and child molestation.
  • The California Board of Parole Hearings voted last week to approve Funston's release.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California who signed the law expanding the state's Elderly Parole Program.

David Allen Funston

A 64-year-old serial child rapist convicted in 1999 on 16 counts of kidnapping and molesting young children.

Suzette Martinez Valladares

A Republican state senator from Santa Clarita who has demanded Newsom remove and replace members of the California Board of Parole Hearings.

Jim Cooper

The Sacramento County Sheriff who criticized the parole board's decision to release Funston.

Brian Jones

The Republican state Senate Minority Leader who accused Newsom of trying to dodge blame for Funston's release.

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What they’re saying

“Hearing the news of Funston's parole made me sick to my stomach. It made me sick thinking about the pain and suffering he inflicted on his victims, who were very young children, and sick thinking about how a monster like this could be granted parole.”

— Suzette Martinez Valladares, State Senator

“It is mind boggling that folks that purport to want to protect women and children and put their interests first don't do a damn thing. The things he did to these kids cannot be undone — ever. It is not OK.”

— Jim Cooper, Sacramento County Sheriff

“He signed the bill that gave a board stacked with his appointees the ability to set free a violent, serial child rapist into the community. Spare us the fake outrage, governor. You created this whole system.”

— Brian Jones, State Senate Minority Leader

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow David Allen Funston to be released on parole.

The takeaway

This case highlights ongoing debates over criminal justice reform, victim's rights, and the balance between rehabilitation and public safety. It raises questions about the effectiveness of programs like California's Elderly Parole Program and the role of gubernatorial appointees in parole decisions involving violent offenders.