A decision by a California parole board has sparked debate by allowing the consideration of early release for Gregory Lee Vogelsang, who was sentenced to 355 years to life for multiple counts related to the kidnapping and molestation of children in the Sacramento area during the 1990s.
Vogelsang, 57, was convicted of crimes targeting children aged 5 to 11. The charges included:
- kidnapping a child
- lewd acts with a minor
- lewd acts using force
According to court records, the incidents occurred in Citrus Heights and the Sacramento area.
Decision Based on "Elderly Parole" Law
The consideration for early release is based on the "Elderly Parole" program—a regulation that allows inmates who:
- are 50 years or older
- have served at least 20 years
- are entitled to apply for parole consideration.
This program was expanded under a law signed by Gavin Newsom in 2020.
A three-member panel voted to approve Vogelsang for parole consideration during a November hearing.
The decision still requires final confirmation, expected by March 18, 2026.
Controversial Testimony at the Hearing
According to hearing transcripts released by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, Vogelsang admitted that deviant tendencies still persist.
He said:
"I understand the triggers and the risk factors, but those desires will always be there."
Vogelsang claimed that being abused as a child contributed to his later criminal behavior.
Law Enforcement Opposes
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office criticized the parole board's decision and expressed concerns about the leniency of the California parole system.
The agency argued that the early release of someone sentenced to hundreds of years for serious crimes could cause public alarm.
According to previous psychological evaluations, Vogelsang was deemed to have a higher risk level than most similar offenders.
