In a decision that affirmed the severity of his crimes, Robert Michael Mills, a 63-year-old convict from Santa Rosa, was denied parole yesterday morning. Details from the Sonoma County District Attorney's official statement detail his life sentence, which came as a result of a 1989 jury conviction for murder by torture and child abuse.
The Sonoma County District Attorney's Office presented a firm stance against Mills' release at the parole hearing. "Mr. Mills abused a vulnerable and defenseless child over a period of several months before he ultimately killed her. His crimes are reprehensible and horrific. We are pleased that the parole board concluded, as we did, that this man is not suitable for release," District Attorney Carla Rodriguez shared with the public. Mills, at his trial, convicted while weighing about 350 pounds, inflicted a prolonged period of abuse on his 2-year-old stepdaughter back in 1988.
The trial revealed shocking instances of abuse, including punching, kicking, and throwing the child against walls. About 40 unique injuries were found on the child, drawing comparisons from expert witnesses to the aftermath typically seen in highspeed vehicle accidents. Mills' attempts to minimize his involvement and lack of credible insight contributed to the parole board's decision to deny his bid for release, as he continues to be seen as a risk to public safety.
Matt Hubley, Deputy District Attorney, attended the parole suitability hearing to represent the opposition. According to the District Attorney's Office, after finding Mills lacked credibility during his testimony, the board agreed with the opposition and denied Mills' release. He is scheduled to become eligible to argue for his release again in three years.
