Residents of District 4,
I had the opportunity to represent our District at today's Town Hall meeting, where the imminent release of a sexual predator was discussed. You can access the recording of today's press conference through this link: Press Conference Recording.
The hearing scheduled for September 1 will address the issue of his placement. This concerning situation pertains to PLACER COUNTY, Calif., where a sexually violent predator is slated to be released as a transient. Despite a judge's ruling, law enforcement is actively opposing this decision.
Placer County Sheriff, Wayne Woo, has emphasized that William Stephenson cannot be considered trustworthy enough to reintegrate into the community freely. He poses a substantial threat to public safety due to his extensive criminal history. Stephenson's record of sexual violence traces back to 1985, resulting in a 31-year prison sentence. Although released in 2014, he was rearrested three years later for possessing child pornography.
Throughout these proceedings, the Placer County District Attorney's Office has consistently objected to Stephenson's release on the grounds of public safety. David Tellman, Chief Assistant District Attorney, stated, "This is an individual who has served 31 years in state prison as a highly violent sex offender."
The district attorney's office strongly opposes his release, especially in the capacity of a transient, as it implies a lack of a stable address.
William Stephenson currently resides in a state hospital, with his next hearing scheduled for September 1st. In addition, we have received a statement from Stand Up Placer, an organization dedicated to Saving lives by empowering survivors and educating communities to stand up to domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
CEO Jenine Jenkins' statement reads as follows: "At Stand Up Placer, we believe in the work of our partners in Law Enforcement and California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. They provide the care and services to allow for those members of our community who commit certain crimes to have a second chance at being a productive member of our community.
William Stephenson has received the best care our CDCR partners have to offer and has demonstrated that he is not one of those people. By releasing Mr. Stephenson back into our community is to undo the work that all Survivors of Sexual Assault have done to heal from the trauma caused by the actions of Mr. Stephenson and others like him.
At Stand Up Placer, we are asking that Mr. Stephenson not be released and especially as a transient free to move about the state. This decision would serve to exert power once again over those who have already survived assaults similar to what Mr. Stephenson has committed as well as put our community in harm's way."
In the face of these unsettling circumstances, our office is committed to safety, unwavering moral standards, and shared ethical values. We must prioritize the well-being of our community, particularly the safety of our children. It is our duty to ensure that individuals with such a history of violence do not pose a threat to our neighborhoods. Let us unite in advocating for the security of our loved ones and continue striving for a future where our children can grow and thrive without fear. Together, we can uphold the principles that define us and create a safer environment for all.
Sincerely,
Suzanne Jones
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