Lennon Assassin Mark David Chapman Denied Parole

The man who gunned down music legend, John Lennon, was denied parole again today.  Mark David Chapman was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison for his heinous crime he committed on December 8th, 1980.  Up for parole again this week, the parole board feels that Champan sitting in prison still is best for society.

On December 8th, 1980, Mark David Chapman met Lennon early in the day, getting the Beatle to sign his latest album, Double Fantasy. Photographer Paul Goresh even took a picture of Lennon signing.  Later on that night, Lennon returned to his Dakota home in New York City.  He and his wife, Yoko Ono, walked by Chapman and headed to the entrance of the courtyard.  Chapman fired five bullets from a .38 at Lennon, four striking the legend.   Chapman never fled the scene. Instead, he sat and read a copy of The Catcher in the Rye.

Tina Susman of LaTimes.com quotes the Parole board as noting Chapman "shot and killed an innocent victim, an international music star" and his record of "good conduct, program achievements, educational accomplishments" is not enough to set him free.  Susman continues to quote the board "Therefore, despite your positive efforts while incarcerated, your release at this time would greatly undermine respect for the law and tend to trivialize the tragic loss of life which you caused as a result of this heinous, unprovoked, violent, cold and calculated crime."

Since hitting his 20 year mark, Chapman is eligible to appear before the parole board every two years.  This week marks the seventh time he has been denied parole.

Personally, I feel that Chapman should stay behind bars for the max of the term - life.  Do you think the board will ever free the man whom shot Lennon?