11/07/2026
GOVERNOR NEWSOM: DOES LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE REALLY MEAN LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE?
Just weeks ago, Governor Newsom’s clemency representative (pictured), reportedly participated in a commutation workshop at Pleasant Valley State Prison, alongside advocates wearing “DROP LWOP” shirts.
Meanwhile, the Governor is assuring victims’ families that individuals whose death sentences are commuted to life without parole will die in prison.
So, Governor, where are the legal guarantees?
California’s new LWOP regulations contain exclusions, but as we know too well regulations can be amended, challenged in court, or changed by future administrations. We have seen this happen before.
Crime Victims United is calling on Governor Newsom and his policy office to provide a clear, legally grounded plan explaining how victims and California residents can be assured that these sentences will not become a future pathway to release.
At the very least, the Governor should issue a formal, public letter outlining the existing legal protections, identifying where those protections could be changed, and proposing enforceable safeguards for the California Supreme Court and the next administration to consider.
If the Governor can promise victims that these individuals will “die in prison”, he should be prepared to put the legal basis for that promise in writing.
And we have another question:
WHEN IS THE GOVERNOR HOSTING A WORKSHOP FOR VICTIMS?
When will victims’ families receive the same opportunity to meet with his policy team, ask questions, understand the legal changes being considered, and have their concerns heard?
We are not asking for another press statement. We are asking for legal clarity, transparency, and a concrete plan to protect the finality of these sentences.
Victims deserve more than snarky tweets. They deserve protections that will withstand future administrations, legal challenges, and policy changes.
A survivor’s place is at the table.
— Crime Victims United
