We are writing to express our strong opposition to the early release of Charles Andrew Williams and urge you to deny parole at his parole hearing scheduled for September 10, 2024.
In 2001, Williams opened fire with a weapon at Santana High School, killing two students and wounding 13 others. He left an entire high school traumatized and the community of Santee in continuing grief and pain. Some of the victims have described how they still have nightmares after attending a vigil or corresponding about this topic on social media. Others have said that in public places, they subconsciously look for the exit points, in case something like this happens again.
What is particularly concerning about this case is that Williams had specifically vowed to “pull a Columbine” when describing to his friends what he planned to do. The nation was in horrific pain after Columbine, so Williams knew full well the level of horror he wanted to inflict on Santana. His recent claims of remorse, and so-called recognition of the causes and effects and his actions, are simply soundbites he and his lawyer will use to try to con you in the hearing. We urge you not to be fooled.
We are asking that parole for Williams be denied, and that he serve his original sentence. We find it inconceivable that Williams would be released before even half his sentence is complete. The victims of this horrific crime deserve justice and the perpetrator should serve his full sentence.