Story perspectives

Victim's Mother Opposes Early Release of Killer Driver

2/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Neomi Velado, a California woman, is slated for release on February 14, 2026 after serving less than three years of a nine-year sentence for vehicular manslaughter in the 2020 distracted-driving crash that killed Benjamin Montalvo.
Montalvo's mother Kellie expresses disbelief at Velado's rehabilitation.
Riverside County prosecutors oppose the release, citing public safety concerns.
Montalvo has appealed to Governor Gavin Newsom to postpone the release, but has not received assistance.

1 of 1

Story summary

Neomi Velado, a California woman, is slated for release on February 14, 2026 after serving less than three years of a nine-year sentence for vehicular manslaughter in the 2020 distracted-driving crash that killed Benjamin Montalvo.
Montalvo's mother Kellie expresses disbelief at Velado's rehabilitation.
Riverside County prosecutors oppose the release, citing public safety concerns.
Montalvo has appealed to Governor Gavin Newsom to postpone the release, but has not received assistance.