Man Convicted of Rape Released Early, Causes Outcry in California

A California man who was convicted of drugging and raping three women has been released after serving about 20 years, causing uproar among local officials concerned about public safety. Andrew Luster, a descendant of cosmetics mogul Max Factor, has reportedly settled in Glendora, California.

Local Outrage Over Release

Glendora Mayor David Fredendall expressed his strong disapproval of Luster’s release. “This is unacceptable,” Fredendall stated. “He was convicted of 86 felony counts for drugging and sexually assaulting unconscious women and was sentenced to 124 years. Now he is living in our community.”

Luster’s conviction dates back to 2003 when he was found guilty of using GHB, a date-rape drug, to incapacitate three women before assaulting them in Ventura County. He fled to Mexico during his trial, only to be captured by bounty hunter Duane “Dog” Chapman.

Sentence Reduction and Parole

Originally sentenced to 124 years, Luster’s sentence was reassessed in 2013. A judge found procedural errors in the original sentencing and granted a new hearing, resulting in a reduced 50-year sentence.

His release has intensified criticism of California’s criminal justice reforms, notably Proposition 57, which enhances parole opportunities for certain inmates. Although initially denied parole in 2022, Luster was eventually approved and released, despite opposition from Ventura County prosecutors.

Officials Respond

Mayor Fredendall has asserted that the release contravenes the public assurances made when Proposition 57 passed, insisting dangerous offenders would stay imprisoned. He emphasized that legal technicalities should not overshadow the fact that Luster was originally set for a life sentence.

California Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio also voiced her disgust, questioning the parole system’s efficacy in community protection. “It’s disturbing that someone sentenced to 124 years for such heinous crimes is released after 20 years,” she said.

Rubio and Fredendall are actively seeking more information on the conditions of Luster’s parole supervision. Concerns persist about his proximity to community spaces like schools and parks.

Fredendall vowed that local law enforcement would cooperate with parole authorities to ensure adherence to all legal conditions. However, he believes the burden should not fall solely on local governments forced to grapple with state decisions.

The city of Glendora is asking for more transparency and accountability from state officials to safeguard its residents. “The victims and community deserve better,” Fredendall concluded.