Request for CSU Killer’s Release
Scaled Back
Attorneys for Edward Allaway, the former California State University/Fullerton janitor who killed seven people at the university’s library on July 12, 1976, have modified their request for his freedom: Instead of seeking his immediate release, they will ask that he stay in a state mental hospital for several more years, with occasional supervised trips outside.
Deputy Public Defender John Bovee said he was changing the request because of strong community opposition to Allaway’s release, as well as the sheer number of victims, the Los Angeles Times reported July 29.
In 1977 Allaway was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the killings and has spent most of his life since then in state hospitals. He would be eligible for release if a judge determines he is sane. Although three past bids for release were denied, his chances may be better this time, since earlier this year a team of psychiatrists declared him mentally fit and recommended his release. A hearing on his sanity is scheduled for September 24.
Relatives of the victims say they will continue to fight any proposal that releases Allaway from state custody—even for limited periods.
Poste August 6, 2001.
|
