A Sacramento man, Darnell Erby, has been sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for the ruthless murder of 77-year-old Pamela May in her North Highlands home. This sentence was pronounced by Judge Laurel White, following Erby's conviction on June 17 for first-degree murder amidst a burglary, mutilation, and armed burglary on five counts, as reported by Hoodline.
Reportedly, the attack occurred on July 15, 2022, where Erby subdued May with her own clothing before killing her and attempting to transfer her property title to himself. Police were able to find her dismembered body before Erby could completely dispose of the evidence, as stated in a report from the Sacramento District Attorney's Office. Erby, who had a prior history of residential burglary, had been released early by CDCR through a "non-violent" parole program, a decision that has drawn significant criticism and concern.
The Placer County District Attorney's Office expressed relief at the sentencing but was quick to point out that the incident could have been evaded, lambasting state officials for a policy failure that, according to them, directly correlates to the woman's tragic demise. "Our prosecutors opposed his release twice," the DA's office stated. "CDCR pushed him out anyway—through a so-called “non-violent” parole program."
The District Attorney's Office has been adamant in holding institutions accountable. In a public criticism aimed at the CDCR, they further emphasized the dire need for oversight and response in the wake of such events, declaring, "This case is a chilling reminder: reckless early release policies have real consequences." Their office asserted to have sent a formal letter to CDCR demanding an explanation and detailing maneuvers to prevent such tragedies in the future, but they have yet to receive a response. The DA's office vowed to continue pressuring for accountability and urged the state to have greater insight over CDCR, criticizing the agency for their apparent lack of self-policing.
