Prosecutors reject release of Antelope Valley “Pillowcase Rapist” – Daily News

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón said Wednesday he strongly opposes the release of a sexually violent offender nicknamed the “Pillowcase Rapist” in underserved communities like the Antelope Valley.

Christopher Hubbart was convicted of a series of rapes and other sex crimes in Los Angeles and Santa Clara counties in 1973, 1982 and 1990.

In March, a Santa Clara County judge finally granted a conditional release over Gascón's objections. The court ruled that Los Angeles County should be Hubbart's place of residence, paving the way for his eventual release to Juniper Hills, south of Pearblossom, in the Antelope Valley.

The decision transfers responsibility for Hubbart's placement to the Los Angeles County Superior Court, which will make the final decision on his placement. After the judge granted conditional release, the search for suitable housing began.

“Continuing to release sexually violent offenders into underserved communities like the Antelope Valley is both irresponsible and unjust,” Gascón said in a statement.

“Repeatedly placing these individuals in the same community shows a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of our residents,” he said. “Our assistant district attorneys will continue to oppose Mr. Hubbart's placement in the Antelope Valley. We must demand more from our justice system and ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of our communities while also exploring alternative locations for these placements.”

Before his release, the Santa Clara District Attorney's Office filed a civil commitment against him as a sexually violent offender under the Sexually Violent Predator Act, which led to his commitment to a state psychiatric hospital four years ago.

“Our residents of Juniper Hills, Pearblossom and Antelope Valley have every right to voice their concerns about the establishment of this predator in their community,” Supervisor Kathryn Barger, whose district includes Antelope Valley, said in a statement.