Convicted child rapist faces new molestation charges in Roseville

David Funston pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from 1996 incident

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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David Funston, a 64-year-old convicted child rapist, has been accused of molesting a child in Roseville, California in 1996. Funston was previously convicted on 16 counts of kidnapping and child molestation in 1999 for crimes in Sacramento County, but was granted early release from prison through California's elder parole program. Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire stated that they filed new charges to get Funston back into custody as soon as possible, as transcripts showed he had pedophilic fantasies as recently as 2021.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about California's elder parole program, which allowed a convicted serial child rapist to be released from prison despite indications he still posed a threat. It also raises questions about the state's approach to sentencing and parole for violent sexual offenders.

The details

Funston pleaded not guilty to the new molestation charges in a Placer County courtroom on Monday. He was originally sentenced to three life sentences in prison for his previous crimes, but the elder parole program led to his early release. Prosecutors say they acted quickly to file new charges and get Funston back into custody.

  • Funston was convicted on 16 counts of kidnapping and child molestation in 1999 for crimes in Sacramento County.
  • Funston was granted early release from prison through California's elder parole program.
  • Transcripts from a hearing in September 2021 showed that Funston indicated he had pedophilic fantasies as recently as that year.
  • Funston pleaded not guilty to the new molestation charges in a Placer County courtroom on Monday, March 9, 2026.
  • Funston's next court appearance is set for April 6, 2026.

The players

David Funston

A 64-year-old convicted serial child rapist who was granted early release from prison through California's elder parole program, but has now been accused of new molestation charges stemming from 1996.

Morgan Gire

The Placer County District Attorney who stated they filed new charges against Funston to get him back into custody as soon as possible.

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What they’re saying

“At the end of the day, our goal is to hold Mr. Funston accountable for the crimes he committed in this county, and we'll remain steadfast in that course.”

— Morgan Gire, Placer County District Attorney (KCRA)

What’s next

The judge will decide on April 6 whether to allow Funston to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges of balancing public safety and criminal justice reform, as the early release of a convicted serial child rapist through California's elder parole program has led to new allegations of abuse. It underscores the need for thorough risk assessments and close monitoring of violent offenders, even as they age.