with him and borrow his truck to get to work and for any other transportation needs Hayward might have. Clifford Rees, the president and owner of a company called California Golf Cars, wrote to offer Hayward an entry-level position with his company. Ralph Steelhead, who was a teacher and coach of Hayward's when Hayward was in junior high school (and is now a chaplain's assistant at the facility in which Hayward is imprisoned) wrote to offer his support. Pastor Warren Nielsen stated his belief that Hayward was ready for parole. Many other family members and acquaintances wrote to emphasize that they would be willing to offer emotional and financial support to Hayward as he readjusts to freedom.
Against the background of this redeeming presentation, the panel granted Hayward parole,concluding that Hayward would not pose an unreasonable risk of danger to society if released from prison. In its decision, the panel noted that Hayward had a stable social history, as evidenced by his stable relationships with his family, friends, and supporters. The panel found that, while in prison, Hayward had enhanced his ability to function within the law upon release by educating himself, receiving vocational training, and participating in therapy like the Yoke Fellows. The panel found that Hayward committed the 1980 murder as a result of significant stress in his life caused by the victim's attempted rape and violent beating of Hayward's future wife. The panel also found that the victim provoked Hayward by throwing a bottle at him on the night of the murder. The