URGENT UPDATE: A Houston crime victims advocate is set to confront the Texas parole board today, aiming to block the release of Venancio Medellin, a man linked to the horrific 1993 murders of teenagers Jennifer Ertman and Elizabeth Peña. Medellin, who was just 14 when the crimes occurred, is now 46 and has served 32 years of a 40-year sentence. His eligibility for parole marks a pivotal moment in a case that devastated families and shocked the community.
Today at 10 AM CT, Andy Kahan, Director of Victim Services and Advocacy for Crime Stoppers of Houston, will meet with a member of the Texas parole board in Palestine, Texas. This member is crucial as they will cast the lead vote in Medellin’s case. Kahan carries a folder filled with photos and newspaper clippings of the victims, determined to remind the board of the lives lost. “It’s just a name on a piece of paper, so I’m going to bring them back to life,” Kahan stated.
The families of Ertman and Peña have been vocal in their opposition to any potential release. Kahan revealed that Sandy Ertman, Jennifer’s mother, will participate in the meeting via conference call. He emphasizes a promise made to Jennifer’s father, Randy Ertman, before his death in 2014—to advocate for the family at every parole hearing. Kahan passionately asserts, “When you are part of a group that is sexually assaulting and torturing, you need to remain in prison.”
Medellin pleaded guilty to sexual assault and received the lightest sentence among his co-defendants after testifying against them. Three of the six gang members involved have been executed, while two others are serving life sentences. If the parole board denies Medellin’s release, Kahan plans to request a five-year set-off, postponing any future parole reviews until 2030. Medellin’s projected release date is currently set for 2033.
In an interview earlier this year, Medellin expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I would want to express that I’m sorry for what happened. I wish that I could take it back, but I cannot.” His statements have not swayed victims’ advocates or the families who continue to fight for justice.
The parole board’s decision is expected in the coming weeks, and the outcome will have significant implications for the families and the community. As Kahan prepares for today’s critical meeting, he remains focused on ensuring that the memories of the victims are honored and that justice prevails.
For more ways to support the victims’ families and to express your views to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, please follow the provided link. Stay updated on this developing story by following Jessica Willey on social media platforms.
