A man who had been convicted for a series of road-rage attacks in Southern California, causing trauma to his victims, was released from prison on Wednesday, serving less than a year of his five-year sentence.
Nathaniel Radimak, aged 37, gained notoriety for his use of a Tesla as his getaway vehicle and a metal pipe as his weapon of choice to vandalize his victims’ cars. Numerous incidents were recorded on video, showcasing his destructive acts.
Between 2022 and 2023, Radimak targeted around a dozen drivers in Los Angeles County, with a focus on women.
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In September, he received a five-year prison sentence for admitting guilt to charges of assault, vandalism, elder abuse, and criminal threats. Although he served less than a year of his five-year term, Radimak became eligible for parole.
According to a statement by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Radimak was given credit for the 424 days he spent in custody while waiting for his sentencing. Additionally, he was eligible for opportunities to earn credits during his time in prison.
The CDCR announced that Radimak was released to parole supervision in Los Angeles County on August 28, 2024. He had served his entire sentence as defined by law.
Legal expert Lou Shapiro states that Radimak’s release can be attributed to the overcrowding problem in California’s prisons.
According to Shapiro, individuals who commit violent crimes such as robbery, murder, or rape will be required to serve a longer portion of their sentence, typically ranging from 60% to 80%.
“Criminal threats or acts of vandalism, like the case we’re discussing, may account for only 30-50% of the overall severity, which could explain why he was released much earlier than expected.”
The early release of the man has sparked outrage among his victims, who are now concerned about the possibility of him committing another offense.
During a Zoom news conference, one victim expressed their disbelief that such a short sentence could lead to any meaningful behavioral reform or rehabilitation, especially considering the extended period that the perpetrator has been involved in criminal activities. The victim made this statement alongside their attorney, Gloria Allred.
One concerned individual expressed their worry, stating, “I am concerned that he may attempt to locate the victims whose identities have been made public. He poses a significant threat to society, and I strongly oppose his early release.”
Allred informed the victims of Radimak that he would be set free on Wednesday.
Gloria Allred, who represents many of the victims, expressed her shock and disappointment at his early release.
Some victims are expressing their disappointment with the justice system, claiming that it failed to give them an opportunity to be heard in court before a plea deal was reached.
The L.A. County District Attorney’s office stated in a statement that…
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is responsible for determining when an inmate will be released from custody in Los Angeles County. Moreover, they are also responsible for notifying the victims about the release. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office does not have authority over these matters.
