Woke bills could spring NY’s worst killers, including ‘Son of Sam’ and John Lennon assassin
New York lawmakers are considering two parole bills that could allow elderly and long-serving inmates, including notorious killers like Mark David Chapman and David Berkowitz, to be released early. Critics argue the bills undermine justice and public safety by prioritizing rehabilitation over the severity of crimes. Supporters claim the measures promote fair parole reviews and reduce the high costs of incarcerating rehabilitated older prisoners.
- ▪The Elder Parole bill would allow inmates over 55 who have served 15 years to receive early parole hearings, regardless of their original sentence or crime.
- ▪The Fair and Timely Parole bill would require the parole board to release inmates unless they are deemed a 'current' threat to public safety.
- ▪Mark David Chapman, who killed John Lennon in 1980, and David Berkowitz, the 'Son of Sam' serial killer, could be eligible for release under these bills.
- ▪The bills are sponsored by state lawmakers Cordell Cleare, Maritza Davilla, Julia Salazar, and David Weprin.
- ▪Advocacy groups like Release Aging People in Prison, funded by George Soros’ Open Society Foundations, support the legislation.
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Metro Woke bills could spring NY’s worst killers, including ‘Son of Sam’ and John Lennon assassin By Tina Moore and Rich Calder Published May 3, 2026, 6:00 a.m. ET Some of the most infamous killers in history, including John Lennon assassin Mark David Chapman and “Son of Sam” serial murderer David Berkowitz, could soon be freed if Albany passes a pair of woke parole bills, critics warn. The Elder Parole bill would let violent criminals dodge their minimum sentences, regardless of how heinous their crimes, and be granted early parole hearings after they’ve turned 55 and served 15 years of their sentences.
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