Parole Offer Rescinded for Convicted Killer
The California Board of Parole Hearings has withdrawn its decision to grant parole to Leslie Closner, a man serving a 25 years-to-life sentence for the brutal murder of his girlfriend, Jan Ferguson. This recent decision will keep Closner behind bars for life.
Closner was convicted of first-degree murder in 1988 after a violent incident at a motel in 1987. Reports indicate that the couple had a troubled and abusive relationship. During a confrontation, Closner strangled Ferguson to death. Following this, he committed further acts including sexual assault on her body before fleeing the scene.
His arrest occurred two days later, when he turned himself in to police in Oregon. The Parole Board’s decision to deny Closner’s parole was influenced by past violent behavior and a pattern of abuse during his relationships, including a prior marriage that ended due to his violent actions.
Former California Governor Jerry Brown underscored concerns about Closner’s potential danger to society, highlighting that he had not demonstrated an understanding of why he acted violently. Closner himself suggested that his aggression stemmed from experiences in his childhood.
The Sutter County District Attorney commended the victim’s family for their persistent advocacy throughout the parole process, ensuring that justice remains a priority for the community.
For those affected by domestic violence, support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, which offers free and confidential assistance 24/7.
