Man Who Killed Robert F. Kennedy In 1960s Granted Parole

The man who assassinated Robert F. Kennedy in 1968 will likely receive his freedom soon after being granted parole.

On June 6th, 1968, Sirhan Sirhan gunned down the younger brother to former President John F. Kennedy at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles. The killing took place just moments after Robert delivered his victory speech after winning the California Presidential Primary. Sirhan was quickly apprehended and subsequently sentenced to the death penalty. However, his sentence was commuted to life in prison three years later.

The now 77-year-old Sirhan was granted parole after sixteen hearings over the years. Now, his case must be reviewed by the California parole board within the next 90 days, who will then send it to Governor Gavin Newsom. From there, he will have one month to make a final decision about whether to grant the parole or reverse it.

Several members of the Kennedy family have opposed the release. However, Robert Kennedy’s son, Douglas Kennedy, supports Sirhan being freed due to his immense remorse about the killing.

“I think I’ve lived my life both in fear of him and his name in one way or another. And I am grateful today to see him as a human being worthy of compassion and love,” Douglas stated.

Sirhan says if he is freed, he will live with his brother in Los Angeles.