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This year will mark the 30th anniversary of the murder of Selena Quintanilla by Yolanda Saldívar, who was not only the president of her fan club but also the manager of her boutiques and had earned the singer’s trust.
Although Saldívar was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison on October 23, 1995, recent discussions have sparked speculation about her possible release. But how and why could this happen?
While she was convicted of first-degree murder, her sentence allows her to apply for parole after serving 30 years—meaning her eligibility is just weeks away.
However, her release is not guaranteed. The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles must review her case and determine whether she qualifies for release and under what conditions.
If granted parole, the 64-year-old could be released from the Patrick L. O’Daniel Unit (formerly Mountain View) of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice on March 30, 2025.
The possibility has unsettled Selena’s family and fans, who strongly oppose her release. Former prosecutor Carlo Valdez has also stated that Saldívar has shown no remorse for her actions.
This is not the first time she has sought freedom. In 2014, after nearly 20 years behind bars, she appealed her conviction, claiming that key witnesses were left out of the original trial and that crucial documents had been lost. However, her arguments were dismissed. This time, the situation is different and could lead to her parole.
Since her sentencing in 1995, following a deliberation of less than three hours, Saldívar has been held at the Gatesville facility. Due to multiple threats from other inmates, authorities have kept her in solitary confinement for her safety.
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