The California Board of Prison Terms has once again turned down Larry Richard Bunke's request for parole. This marks his 14th denial since his conviction for the second-degree murder of his wife, Linda, in 1982, as reported by the Sonoma County District Attorney's Office.
Bunke's history of violence was brought to light during his parole hearing, held on September 18, 2025. The panel considered testimony from Bunke, his prison records, psychological evaluations, and statements from both the defense and the prosecution before arriving at their decision. Despite being 76 years old and thus eligible for "Elder Parole," the board concluded that Bunke, who committed the murder only days after separating from his wife, still poses an unacceptable threat to society. His violence on that fateful night left Linda Bunke with catastrophic injuries from which she never recovered, succumbing five days later.
In their deliberation, the parole board highlighted disturbing attributes in Bunke's behavior. He reportedly continues to harbor resentment towards his wife and others and manifests anger and hostility, despite undergoing educational and therapeutic prison programs. The panel zeroed in on his apparent lack of remorse and understanding, particularly relating to domestic violence and its effects on the victim's family, which includes the couple's two children, who were spared from witnessing the murder of their mother.
Anne Masterson, Chief Deputy District Attorney, strongly opposed Bunke's release during the proceedings. He "continues to place blame on his wife and others for the fatal beating, lacks any understanding of domestic violence, and continues to demonstrate anger and hostility," as per the Sonoma County District Attorney's Office. Bunke's next parole review is set for 2029, although he has the right to petition for an earlier hearing.
