Parole Recommended in 1991 Attempted Murder of Tulare County Superior Court Judge

Yesterday via video conference, a California Parole Board recommended parole for Harry Bodine, age 75, of Visalia. Bodine has been incarcerated since 1992 for the attempted murder of now retired Tulare County Superior Court Judge Howard Broadman. Bodine is currently housed at High Desert State Prison.

On May 4, 1991, Bodine entered Judge Broadman’s Visalia courtroom carrying a briefcase. As the court was in session, Bodine rose from his seat in the public gallery and fired a single shot from a .357 Magnum revolver at Judge Broadman, who was seated on the bench. The shot missed and Bodine was immediately taken in to custody. It was discerned through investigation and at trial that Bodine was upset at Judge Broadman over a decision to allow a defendant probation if she used a birth control implant. Bodine had no connection to the defendant or any party in that case.

In 1992, a jury convicted Bodine of attempted murder of a government official, attempted murder, possession of a weapon in a courtroom, and second-degree burglary. The court sentenced him to 18 years-to-life.

This was Bodine’s sixth parole hearing. The Office of the District Attorney routinely attends life parole hearings and prosecutors argued against the inmate’s release in this case. In light of the parole board’s recommendation, the office will submit a letter to the Governor urging his office to overturn the decision.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare
Assistant District Attorney Dave Alavezos (559) 636-5494