John Lennon’s killer, Mark David Chapman, has once again been denied parole at his 14th hearing.
Now 70, Chapman appeared before the parole board on August 27 to find out if he’d be released from Green Haven Correctional Facility in Beekman, New York. He has been serving a sentence of 20 years to life since 1981.
According to updated records from the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, his request for parole was denied.
Chapman was convicted of fatally shooting Lennon on December 8, 1980, outside the singer’s New York City apartment as Lennon arrived home with wife Yoko Ono. Tragically, just hours earlier, Lennon had autographed a copy of Double Fantasy for Chapman.
It’s not yet clear what Mark David Chapman told the board at his latest parole hearing, but in the past he’s expressed deep remorse for killing John Lennon—while also admitting his motive was selfish.
“I assassinated him…because he was very famous. That is the only reason and I was very, very, very much seeking self-glory,” Chapman has previously said.
He’s also apologized directly for the pain he caused Lennon’s family: “I’m sorry for the pain that I caused to his wife, to his son. I think about it all of the time.”
Despite his apologies, Chapman has acknowledged he belongs behind bars for life. “I deserve zero, nothing. I should be in prison for the rest of my life,” he admitted.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Yoko Ono released a heartfelt statement, writing in part, “John loved and prayed for the human race. Please do the same for him.”
Paul McCartney faced backlash for his initial reaction, calling Lennon’s death “a drag,” though he later explained he was in shock when he made the comment.
President Jimmy Carter also paid tribute at the time, saying, “John Lennon helped create the mood and the music of the time. His music and his message were of peace and love. The world is shocked and saddened by the loss of a great man.”
Mark David Chapman’s next parole hearing is set for 2027.
