David Scarbrough, who was convicted for the 1995 murder of Les and Carol Dotts in Knoxville, will remain in prison after being denied parole by the Tennessee Parole Board. The decision was announced last Friday, with Communications Officer Dustin Krugel stating that "due to the seriousness of the offense and that continued correctional treatment, medical care of vocational, or other training, would substantially enhance the offender's capacity to lead a law-abiding life when/if given release..." as reported by WBIR.
Throughout the parole hearing process, Scarbrough maintained his innocence, stating "I’m not that type of person. I’m not a violent person," and expressing his desire not to disappoint, both the parole board and Jeanne Dotts-Brykalski, the victim's daughter. Despite his claims, the board was not swayed and recommended Scarbrough maintain "positive institutional behavior" and complete a substance abuse program to improve his chances at a future parole hearing, according to WVLT News.
Scarbrough, who is serving a 60-year sentence, will next be eligible for parole in December 2027. He is one of three men implicated in the murders, with his co-defendant Thomas Gagne Jr. also convicted and a third, Harley Watts, who was a juvenile at the time, released in 2001.
Meanwhile, the Dotts family has expressed relief at the decision. "We are glad he's not getting out, are we looking forward to going back in three years? Not really," Jeanne Dotts-Brykalski told WBIR. The ordeal has been an "emotionally draining, mentally draining, and physically draining experience" for the family, but they have reaffirmed their commitment to be present and contest any future parole hearings.
