Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 02/25/2009

Contact person(s):

Media Coordinator, Theresa Menshek (707) 565-3099 Media Spokesperson, Chief Deputy District Attorney Spencer Brady

Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, California

PAROLE BOARD ACCEPTS STIPULATION BY CONVICTED MURDERER, LARRY BUNKE, THAT HE IS UNSUITABLE FOR PAROLE

Sonoma County District Attorney Stephan Passalacqua announced today that on February 20, 2009, a California state parole board denied parole for convicted murderer Larry Bunke, after Larry Bunke agreed that he was unsuitable for parole at this time.

District Attorney Stephan Passalacqua said, "We are glad to report that Mr. Bunke will continue to remain in state prison. His crime of murder was a brutal example of the pain and tragedy that results from domestic violence."

In 1983 a jury convicted Larry Bunke of murder in the second degree. In May of 1982, Larry Bunke and the victim, his wife Linda Bunke, were having marital problems. They had agreed on a trial separation and Linda Bunke remained in the family home. On May 27, 1982, Linda Bunke was out for the evening when Larry Bunke returned to the family home. He forced open the garage and parked his car inside. He located Linda Bunke's wedding ring on top of a jewelry box. He then attempted to call various friends to see where Linda was, but was unable to locate her. He then stayed the evening at the home. Linda Bunke returned early the next morning and was surprised to find Larry Bunke within the residence. As she tried to leave, he pursued her outside. An argument ensued as Linda Bunke tried to leave in her car. Ultimately, Larry Bunke punched Linda Bunke several times in the face. She retreated across the street, where she ultimately fell onto the ground and lay unconscious. Larry Bunke fled, but returned minutes later. He carried her into the house. Once in the house, while Linda Bunke remained unconscious, he struck her several times with a belt. He then called the police and turned himself in. Five days later Linda Bunke died. She suffered multiple traumatic head injuries. Her injuries included skull fractures, facial fractures, severe lacerations to her eyes, bridge of nose, upper and lower lips, and several bruises about her body, including her back and abdomen, which caused internal bleeding.

After Larry Bunke's conviction, he was sentenced to serve 15 years to life in state prison. After serving 85% of the 15 years, Larry Bunke became eligible to request a parole hearing with the Board of Parole. He has been denied parole seven prior times.

Deputy District Attorney Traci Carrillo represented Sonoma County in opposing Larry Bunke's release from custody. Several family members of Linda Bunke's were also present at the hearing to oppose Larry Bunke's release. Inmate Larry Bunke will not be eligible for another parole hearing for three years.