David Allen Funston, 64, is currently housed at the California Institution for Men in Chino. A Board of Parole Hearings panel affirmed a prior parole recommendation during a February hearing, clearing another step toward his release. State officials indicate that the governor retains the authority to review and potentially reverse the decision.

Funston was convicted in 1999 on 16 felony counts related to a series of kidnappings and sexual assaults involving children in Sacramento-area communities. Court records show he was sentenced to 20 years and eight months in prison, along with three consecutive terms of 25 years to life.

During trial proceedings, eight children — seven girls and one boy, all under the age of 7 at the time of the crimes — testified about their experiences. Prosecutors detailed how Funston allegedly used candy, toys and other items to lure young children to his vehicle before abducting and assaulting them.

In one 1995 case, authorities said a 5-year-old girl was enticed into his car and taken to a remote area where she was assaulted. She was later found walking along a roadway, distressed and without shoes. In another case, a 4-year-old girl was reportedly lured with a toy and threatened with a knife after being taken to a residence. Court testimony described significant physical and emotional trauma suffered by the victims.

Before his California convictions, Funston had also been convicted in Colorado for sexually assaulting an adult woman.

Former prosecutors involved in the case have publicly opposed his release, arguing that the severity and pattern of the crimes warrant continued incarceration. Efforts are reportedly underway to explore additional legal avenues that could delay or prevent his release, including review under California’s Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) law. Under that program, certain offenders may be subject to civil commitment to a state hospital if they are deemed to pose a continued threat to public safety.

Funston became eligible for review under California’s elderly parole provisions, which generally allow inmates age 50 or older who have served at least 20 continuous years to receive a parole suitability hearing. He was previously denied elderly parole in 2022 before being granted parole in a subsequent review.

It remains unclear when he would be released or where he would reside if released. State corrections officials have not publicly provided a timeline.

The case has renewed debate about parole eligibility standards, victims’ rights, and the balance between rehabilitation and public safety in California’s criminal justice system.

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Mix, who is now 69, was denied by the California Board of Parole Hearings under the elderly parole program. District Attorney Mike Hestrin swiftly affirmed the decision.

“The decision to deny early release for Charles Mix reflects the seriousness of the crime and the continued risk he poses to public safety and his victims,” said District Attorney Mike Hestrin. “Our responsibility is to ensure justice is served, while recognizing the emotional strain these hearings place on victims, their families, and the community. It’s crucial that those who commit serious offenses are held fully accountable for their actions.”

Mix was 49 when he committed the crimes he was convicted for, including “willful child cruelty, kidnapping for rape and lewd acts on a child under 14,” a statement from Hestrin’s office read.

The victim is now 27 years old and reports that she is too traumatized to speak publicly about the horrific incident. Her sister spoke on her behalf with her permission.

Of Mix, the victim’s sister, Claira Stansbury said “Some people aren’t able to be rehabilitated. He is a pedophile, and instead of worrying so much about the man who made his choice, they need to be focused on the victim and their families.”

Still, Mix will have another chance at parole in seven years. He has served 20 years of his long sentence.

Residents who would like to voice their concerns about the possible release of inmates that pose a risk to the community can visit Riverside County’s District Attorney Website at: Paroled Inmates | Riverside County District Attorney (rivcoda.org).

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