Share your thoughts. Should Cameron Hooker get released? Jury selection is scheduled to start on May 18 in San Mateo County. Cameron Hooker, the “Girl in the Box” kidnapper is approaching potential release under California law. A California court on Thursday began a civil trial to decide whether Hooker, should be labeled a sexually violent predator and placed in a secure state hospital as he nears possible release from prison.
Hooker was convicted in the 1980s and sentenced to more than 100 years in prison for abducting 20-year-old Colleen Stan and holding her captive for seven years, at times confining her in a wooden box under his bed and subjecting her to repeated physical and sexual abuse. She escaped in 1984 with help from Hooker’s wife, leading to his arrest.
Prosecutors are looking to keep him locked up through civil commitment. The jury will decide whether Hooker qualifies as a sexually violent predator. If jurors agree, Hooker would be transferred to a locked state hospital. If not, he could be released under supervision. The state filed the petition in 2020 seeking that commitment.
A forensic psychologist evaluated Hooker in prison recently and said he meets the criteria as a sexually violent predator. The psychologist said his condition makes him likely to commit future predatory acts without treatment and custody.
Photo credits: Top, Krcrtv.com. Bottom, alchetron.com
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