A Message to Families Impacted by the Governor’s Death Penalty Decision
California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced his intention to commute the death sentences of individuals currently on California’s death row, a decision that can affect families of victims whose lives were taken in these cases.
The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office recognizes the profound impact this announcement may have on victims’ families and wants to ensure they have an opportunity to ask questions, share their concerns and access available support.
If you are a family member of a victim whose case may be affected by this announcement, we encourage you to contact our office at SanDiegoDA@sandiegoda.gov or call our Victim Services Division at (619) 531-4041.
Please include your name, contact information, the name of your murdered loved one, and if known, the name of the defendant who was sentenced to death. Your inquiry will be directed to the appropriate representative within our office.
Our hearts are with you. You are not forgotten, and we remain committed to supporting victims and their families while we research any available legal avenues.
Below we try to answer some questions you might have:
What happened?
On November 5, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom announced his intention to commute every existing California death sentence to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, or LWOP.
Many victims and surviving family members have endured years or decades of court proceedings and relied on the sentence imposed by the court and jury as an important measure of justice. Learning about this announcement through public reports rather than direct outreach has only added to the pain.
The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office was not notified in advance. As a result, our office could not provide advance notice, support, services, or information to affected families before the announcement became public.
What does “commutation” mean?
A commutation changes the punishment. It does not erase the conviction.
Does this mean the offenders will be released?
No, under current law. If the commutations take effect, the offenders will remain in state prison and will not be eligible for parole or release. The convictions will remain in place. Existing restitution orders will remain in place.
Have the death sentences already been changed?
The Governor announced his intent to begin the clemency process. The clemency orders have yet been finalized.
Additional legal steps must be completed in some cases. The California Constitution requires a recommendation from the California Supreme Court, with at least four justices concurring, before the Governor may commute the sentence of a person who has been “twice convicted of a felony.”
What does “twice convicted” mean?
In addition to the death penalty case, the defendant must have been convicted of an additional felony in a separate case.
Were individual crimes or victims’ experiences reviewed?
The Governor’s explanatory statement says individualized circumstances were not reviewed.
Is the District Attorney’s Office considering legal action?
We are working with statewide partners to assess any viable courses of legal action.
How can I get support?
Reach out by email to SanDiegoDA@SanDiegoDA.gov or call our Victim Services Division at (619) 531-4041.
