Parole Denied in 1979 Murder
Today, via video conference, TCDA prosecutors secured a 3-year denial of parole for Rodolfo Garza, age 68, who is serving a life sentence for murder. Garza is currently incarcerated at the Substance Abuse Treatment Facility and State Prison in Corcoran.
On July 22, 1979, Garza, his brother, and two other men drove a fifth man to a rural area in Tulare County, where they robbed him and beat him to death. Leaving his body in an orchard, the four men returned to the bar where the victim had parked his car. There, they kidnapped two other men, beating and robbing them as well. The perpetrators then stole the first victim’s car, drove it into the country, and set it on fire. Garza was arrested soon after.
That same year, Garza pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. While incarcerated, Garza has received numerous disciplinary write-ups and rules infractions.
This was Garza’s 8th parole suitability hearing. At this hearing, commissioners noted that, in addition to disciplinary actions, Garza has not adequately participated in education and programming and did not possess suitable post-release plans.
The Office of the District Attorney regularly attends life parole hearings and a deputy district attorney argued against the inmate’s release in this case.
Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare
Chief Deputy District Attorney Dave Alavezos (559) 636-5494