Third Striker Denied Parole

On February 20, 2026, a California parole board issued a 5-year denial for Erik Zelms, age 60, who is serving life in prison for violations of California’s Three Strikes Law. Zelms is currently incarcerated at Valley State Prison in Chowchilla.

Zelms’ extensive criminal history began at the age of 18 for forging a credit card for fraud purposes. Throughout the 1980’s and early 1990’s, Zelms faced charges for grand theft, armed robbery, being armed with a firearm, forgery, hit and run, domestic violence, child abuse and probation violations. During that time, Zelms served two separate prison sentences and a jail sentence.

In March 1995, while on supervised release, Zelms entered a Tulare market armed with a large knife and stole $50. Witnesses positively identified Zelms. In this incident, Zelms pleaded guilty to felony second-degree robbery with special enhancements of use of a deadly weapon. Due to his conviction history and the seriousness of his crime, the court sentenced Zelms to 26 years to life in prison.

While incarcerated, Zelms has committed numerous rules violations including the consistent use of hard narcotics. At the hearing, Zelms presented minimal plans for any possible release.

“When talking about life sentences where parole is possible, we often make the distinction between parole “eligibility” and parole “suitability,” said District Attorney Tim Ward. “This is a clear case of an inmate being eligible for parole but certainly not suitable to re-enter the community. My priority is to protect the citizens of this county, and the release of this inmate is simply too risky. We are encouraged that parole commissioners agreed.”

This was Zelms’ first hearing in front of parole commissioners. Previously, Zelms stipulated to denials in 2018 and 2020.

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