California Governor Gavin Newsom declined to intervene in the parole of a convicted murderer who kidnapped, raped, and strangled a young woman in 1974, clearing the path for his release after more than five decades behind bars. San Luis Obispo County prosecutors are condemning both the parole board’s decision and the governor’s refusal to act.

The 1974 Murder of Genevieve Moreno

Alberto Tamez, now 75 years old, was convicted of killing Genevieve Adaline Moreno in Nipomo during the late-night hours of June 17, 1974. Moreno was attacked outside the bar where she worked. Her body was discovered the following morning in a eucalyptus grove approximately a quarter mile away. The county medical examiner determined she died from homicidal strangulation and suffered multiple bruises, abrasions, and cuts across her body during the brutal assault.

Investigators identified Tamez the same morning Moreno’s body was found. He had bloodstains on his shirt and hands, along with foxtails and debris matching the crime scene. Tamez was convicted of first-degree murder, robbery, kidnapping, and rape by force. He received a life sentence with the possibility of parole in September 1974. The California Board of Parole Hearings granted his parole on December 30, 2025.

District Attorney Blasts Parole Decision

District Attorney Dan Dow sharply criticized the outcome, calling it a failure of California’s criminal justice system and a devastating denial of justice. Dow emphasized that his office opposed the release at every stage and argued that Tamez was undeniably responsible for the killing. He noted that Tamez admitted his guilt and the evidence was overwhelming. Dow also expressed deep disappointment that Newsom chose not to exercise his authority to reverse the parole board’s decision.

What Happens Next

As of May 8, 2026, Tamez remains incarcerated at the California Men’s Colony in San Luis Obispo County while release procedures continue. The governor had the power to block the parole but allowed it to move forward by taking no action. Dow stated that Genevieve Moreno deserved the full protection of justice and vowed that her story would not be forgotten. The case highlights ongoing tensions between California’s parole system and prosecutors who argue violent offenders should remain incarcerated regardless of time served.