Mark David Chapman, John Lennon’s Killer, Denied Parole for 14th Time

Mark David Chapman — the man convicted of killing former Beatle John Lennon — has been denied parole once more. According to state records, a parole board refused Chapman’s release at a hearing on Aug. 27, extending his incarceration.

New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision digital records show Chapman will continue serving his sentence of 20 years to life. His next parole review is scheduled for February 2027. (NY DOCS parole calendar).

In earlier proceedings Chapman acknowledged responsibility and expressed remorse. During a 2020 parole appearance he characterized his act as driven by a craving for notoriety and said he understood the gravity of what he did; he reiterated similar sentiments in 2022, admitting a selfish disregard for human life.

John Lennon was fatally shot on Dec. 8, 1980, outside his Manhattan residence at The Dakota as he returned with his wife, Yoko Ono. Chapman was apprehended nearby and later found carrying a copy of J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye.

Meanwhile, Beatles fans are anticipating a refreshed release of the group’s Anthology collection this fall, which reportedly will include a newly updated Anthology book and a reissue of the original 1995 television series on Disney+.

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