California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced on Thursday that he is commuting the death sentences of 548 inmates to life in prison without parole.
This decision, described by Newsom as a reflection of his belief that “state-sanctioned killing is incompatible with California’s values,” has drawn significant criticism, particularly from Todd Spitzer, the Orange County District Attorney.
Spitzer expressed his disapproval, stating that Newsom’s decision is “mercy for the wolves” and inflicts “the ultimate act of cruelty on the sheep.” He argued that the death penalty has been upheld by California voters and that prosecutors should represent the will of the people. “You cannot have crime without punishment,” Spitzer said, emphasizing his commitment to pursuing the death penalty for heinous crimes.
Newsom’s decision affects inmates like Daniel Wozniak, convicted of two counts of first-degree murder in 2015 and sentenced to death in 2016. Wozniak’s commutation has sparked anger from victims’ families, including Steve Herr, whose son was one of Wozniak’s victims. Herr called Newsom a “coward” for not addressing each case individually.
The California District Attorneys Association also condemned the decision, stating it shows “profound disregard for the decisions of juries and judges, the rights of crime victims, and the repeatedly expressed will of California voters.” Newsom’s action does not repeal the death penalty but applies only to current sentences, with some requiring review by the California Supreme Court.
Newsom’s decision comes as he prepares to leave office and considers a presidential run. His move has been praised by anti-death penalty groups, who view it as a step toward a fairer justice system. However, district attorneys across California, including Riverside County’s Mike Hestrin and Los Angeles County’s Nathan Hochman, criticized the lack of consultation with prosecutors and victims’ families before the announcement.