A man previously sentenced to over 300 years for sexually abusing a 5-year-old has been granted early release under a law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. This law has stirred controversy due to the nature of his crimes.
Gregory Lee Vogelsang, now 57, had been convicted of kidnapping and sexually abusing multiple children, aged 5 to 11, in the Sacramento area during the 1990s, receiving a sentence of 355 years to life.
Despite this, a panel decided to grant him parole during a hearing last November, even with the gravity of his offenses.
In a transcript of the hearing shared by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, Vogelsang discussed his disturbing fixation on young boys. “I understand the internal and external triggers of pedophilia,” he remarked, claiming to be mindful of situations that pose risks.
He expressed a desire not to view children as sexual objects, yet acknowledged that the urge was always there.
Vogelsang attributed his obsession to his own childhood abuse, stating, “As a child, I think child sexual abuse was normalized for me because I was abused by my father from 7 to 11.” He mentioned grappling with the psychological impact of this abuse as he aged.
The law, enacted in 2020, enables prisoners aged 50 or older who have served at least 20 years to apply for parole. This is what opened the door for Vogelsang’s release.
There are other offenders in similar situations, including David Allen Funston, who are being considered under these “elderly” parole laws.
While supporters argue that most sex offenders do not reoffend while on parole, Vogelsang’s release has raised eyebrows among critics, particularly given his extensive criminal history that includes multiple felonies related to child sexual abuse.
Evidence found during investigations, such as juvenile underwear kept by Vogelsang for sexual gratification, adds to the concerns about his early release.
A psychological assessment indicated that he still feels sexual attraction to boys aged 5 to 11. Reports also mentioned that he had engaged in inappropriate fantasies in recent years.
The Sacramento Sheriff’s Office has voiced its disapproval of Vogelsang’s release, which is pending a final review on March 18. They expressed serious concerns about his potential return to the community, stating, “He’s headed to a neighborhood near you.”
