Yolanda Saldívar, convicted of murdering Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla-Pérez in 1995, has been denied parole by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.
The board cited the brutal and violent nature of the crime as the primary reason for their decision, indicating that Saldívar continues to pose a threat to public safety.
«After a thorough consideration of all available information, which included any confidential interviews conducted, it was the parole panel’s determination to deny parole to Yolanda Saldivar and set her next parole review for March 2030,» the Board revealed in a statement.
Saldívar, now 64, was serving as the president of Selena’s fan club and manager of her boutiques when she was found to have embezzled funds. This discovery led to her dismissal and culminated in the tragic confrontation at a Corpus Christi motel where Selena was fatally shot.
In the 2024 Oxygen docuseries Selena & Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them, Saldívar spoke about the murder, denying any embezzlement and making unsubstantiated claims that she was «protecting Selena’s alleged extramarital affair.»
Despite claims that the shooting was accidental, the jury found Saldívar guilty of first-degree murder after a two-hour deliberation, sentencing her to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 30 years.
The Quintanilla family expressed gratitude for the parole board’s decision, stating that it reaffirms justice for Selena’s life and legacy. They emphasized their commitment to preserving her memory and thanked fans for their unwavering support.
«Today, we are grateful that the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has chosen to deny parole for Yolanda Saldívar. While nothing can bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice continues to stand for the beautiful life that was taken from us and from millions of fans around the world far too soon», they revealed in a statement.
Saldívar is currently serving a life sentence at the Patrick L. O’Daniel Unit in Gatesville, Texas. Her next parole review is scheduled for 2030.
The Reasons Why Saldivar’s Parole Has Been Denied
Yolanda Saldívar’s parole was denied primarily due to the severity of her crime, public safety concerns, and lack of demonstrated rehabilitation or remorse.
Nature of the Crime: Saldívar was convicted of first-degree murder, a violent offense that involved premeditation. The Texas parole board heavily weighs the brutality and impact of a crime when making parole decisions. Given the high-profile nature of Selena’s murder and its lasting effect on the public, this weighed strongly against her release.
Public Safety & Risk Assessment:Even after 30 years, the case remains highly emotional, with a global fanbase still affected by Selena’s death. The board considers whether the inmate poses a continued risk, not just in terms of criminal behavior but also regarding potential threats to their own safety or public unrest if released.
Lack of Remorse & Rehabilitation: Parole is often granted to inmates who show genuine remorse, rehabilitation efforts, and a low likelihood of reoffending. Saldívar has consistently maintained that the shooting was accidental, despite forensic evidence proving otherwise. A failure to take full accountability can negatively impact an inmate’s parole prospects.
Victim’s Family & Public Sentiment: In Texas, parole boards consider the wishes of victims’ families. The Quintanilla family has strongly opposed her release, and the overwhelming public reaction suggests her parole could lead to social unrest, making her reintegration into society highly challenging.
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