GLENDORA, CA — A convicted serial rapist and heir to the Max Factor cosmetics fortune is living in Glendora after being released from state prison this month, sparking outrage among local officials who are calling for stronger protections for residents.
Andrew Luster, 62, was released to parole supervision Oct. 11 after spending more than two decades behind bars, according to the Los Angeles Times. His residence in Glendora was confirmed by California's Megan's Law website.
Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio, whose district includes Glendora, condemned Luster's release Monday.
"This is disgusting and unacceptable," Rubio said in a statement. "I am working closely with local officials and law enforcement to stay informed about the circumstances of Luster's release, the conditions of his parole and the measures being taken to protect the residents of Glendora and surrounding communities."
Luster was convicted in 2003 of 86 felony counts involving the sexual assault of women he had drugged into unconsciousness with GHB, commonly known as a date-rape drug. Evidence presented at trial included videos Luster recorded of himself sexually assaulting the women.
He was originally sentenced to 124 years in prison, but a judge reduced the sentence to 50 years in 2013, the Times reported.
Luster's release has raised questions about California's sentencing and parole laws.
Glendora Mayor David Fredendall blamed Proposition 57, a voter-approved measure passed in 2016 that expanded parole consideration for nonviolent offenders and allowed additional sentencing credits.
"The people of Glendora should not have to worry about their safety because of a decision by the state that allows an individual with a history of rape and violence to now live in close proximity to schools, parks, playgrounds, churches, and community centers," Fredendall said in a statement, according to the Times.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation disputed the characterization of Luster's release as an early release.
Corrections officials said Luster had served his full sentence as required by law, including 977 days of credits earned through work and good conduct.
Luster had previously been considered for parole, but a decision to grant his release was overturned after objections from his victims and Ventura County prosecutors, the Times reported.
Fredendall said Glendora police would coordinate with state parole authorities to monitor Luster's compliance with the terms of his release.
"Our Police Department will work with State parole authorities to ensure every applicable law and condition of supervision is followed," Fredendall said. "We will do everything within our lawful authority to protect our residents."
City News Service contributed to this report.
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