A convicted child molester in California, David Allen Funston, who was set to be released this week, was instead returned to law enforcement following a newly issued arrest warrant in Placer County, state officials have confirmed.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation reported that Funston, 64, was transferred to law enforcement at around 7:30 a.m. after Placer County filed new criminal charges against him.
Funston had been granted parole on Tuesday and was expected to be released soon. He was originally sentenced to life in prison in 1999 for serious offenses including child sexual abuse, kidnapping, and lewd acts involving children under 14, as indicated by the CDCR.
A parole hearing on September 24, 2025, had deemed him suitable for parole. However, after Governor Gavin Newsom reconsidered the case and requested a review, the Board of Parole Hearings reaffirmed its recommendation for his release on February 18, 2026.
Funston qualified for California’s geriatric parole program, which allows individuals over 50 who have served at least 20 consecutive years to be eligible for release.
Colin Rankin, Chair of the California Republican Party, criticized the last-minute arrest, stating that such actions highlight systemic issues within state policy regarding parole. He emphasized that the Democratic leadership under Newsom is, in his view, creating pathways for violent offenders to re-enter communities.
Former prosecutors involved in Funston’s conviction also expressed their concerns. One commented on the proactive steps taken by the Placer County Attorney’s Office in trying to hold Funston accountable, while pointing out the role of state laws that allowed this situation to unfold.
The emotional toll of this situation is apparent among the victims. One of Funston’s victims, identified as Amelia, voiced her frustration about the parole board’s approval of his release. She described the lasting effects of Funston’s abuse, including ongoing trauma and challenges in her personal life.
Amelia has fears about Funston potentially reoffending if he returns to the Sacramento area. She questions the decision to release him, citing chilling remarks about his lingering thoughts on children. Despite Funston reportedly expressing remorse, she found it hard to accept his apology.
Details regarding the new charges in Placer County are currently unclear, but the looming release of Funston has led to significant backlash from local officials like Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper and District Attorney Tien Ho, who have warned about the potential danger he poses to the public.
As of now, it is uncertain when Funston will have his first court appearance regarding the new charges.
