LENNON’S MURDERER IS DENIED PAROLE
Yesterday state parole officials rejected a bid for freedom, saying Mark David Chapman hadn’t lost his interest in publicity, a drive that fueled his “most vicious and violent act.” It was Chapman’s first attempt for parole stemming from the December 1980 shooting death. Chapman won’t be eligible for parole for two more years.
Yoko Ono said, “Myself and John’s two sons, would not feel safe for the rest of our lives. People who are in positions of high visibility and outspokenness such as John, would also feel unsafe.”
Chapman was interviewed for 50 minutes Tuesday morning at the maximum-security Attica state prison by three parole board members. About four hours later, Chapman was given the board’s one-page determination beginning: “Parole is denied.”
The board called Chapman’s killing of Lennon “calculated and unprovoked.” In addition to being one of the most famous musicians in the world, Lennon was also a “husband and a father of two young children,” the board said.
“Your most vicious and violent act was apparently fueled by your need to be acknowledged,” the board said. “During your parole hearing, this panel noted your continued interest in maintaining your notoriety.”
