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Retired Judge Critiques Newsom's Controversial Parole Laws

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Maryann Gilliard, a retired California judge, said Newsom's laws endanger public safety by releasing dangerous felons early, citing the elder parole release of David Allen Funston as a turning point.
She argued Newsom's mental health diversion laws lack safeguards and amount to a get-out-of-jail-free card.
Newsom's office defended the parole process as stringent and cited declining crime rates.
Critics, including former District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, warned about victims' rights.

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Story summary

Maryann Gilliard, a retired California judge, said Newsom's laws endanger public safety by releasing dangerous felons early, citing the elder parole release of David Allen Funston as a turning point.
She argued Newsom's mental health diversion laws lack safeguards and amount to a get-out-of-jail-free card.
Newsom's office defended the parole process as stringent and cited declining crime rates.
Critics, including former District Attorney Anne Marie Schubert, warned about victims' rights.