California State Assembly Democratic Caucus

01/12/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/12/2025 20:14

Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria (D-Merced) Applauds Governor's Decision to Stop Early Release of Convicted Killer

For immediate release:
Sunday, January 12, 2025

MERCED, CA - "Today, justice has been served in our community and a wrong has been righted," said Assemblywoman Soria. "We thank Governor Newsom and applaud his action to reverse the decision the parole board made last October to recommend early release for convicted murderer Rodolfo Romero. A man, who in 2010, brutally killed his wife in cold blood while his two young sons were sleeping in their Merced home."

"Our community is relieved, thankful, and has peace of mind knowing this monster will remain in prison," said Soria. "I've spoken to the victims of this tragedy, the Reid family. They can rest easy now, knowing their nightmare is no longer a reality. Governor Newsom has delivered justice for the Merced community, for our district and for the Reid family."

The victim's family, along with other county leaders also weighed in on the decision.

"We are grateful to Assemblywoman Soria for her advocacy on behalf of our family and pleased that justice has been served with the decision to keep this killer behind bars," said Sharon Reid, sister of the victim, Diane Reid. "We are relieved and thankful to the Governor for his decision."

"Our pursuit of justice does not end in the courtroom," said Merced County District Attorney Nicole Silveira. "We are grateful to the Governor's office for reversing the decision of the parole board. We stand with Diane's family as they continue to honor her and strive to ensure the defendant is held accountable."