Welp, Yolanda Saldívar just got the prison equivalent of a big red “Access Denied” stamp.
The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has officially shut down her request for parole, which means she’s staying exactly where she’s been for the last three decades—behind bars.
Selena Quintanilla’s family took to social media on Thursday (March 27) to confirm the decision, likely with a sigh of relief and a collective eye roll.
“Today, we are grateful that the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles has chosen to deny parole for Yolanda Saldívar. While nothing can bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice continues to stand for the beautiful life that was taken from us and from millions of fans around the world far too soon,” the family stated, basically saying, “Yeah, she’s not getting out anytime soon.”
They continued: “Selena’s legacy is one of love, music, and inspiration. She lived with joy, gave selflessly, and continues to uplift generations with her voice and her spirit.” In other words, while Selena’s impact is timeless, the same can’t be said for Yolanda’s parole prospects.
The family added: “We thank Selena’s fans for their unwavering support throughout the years. Your love has been a source of strength and healing. We will continue to celebrate Selena’s life – not the tragedy that took her from us — and we ask that all who cherish her do the same.” Translation: Focus on the legend, not the one-hit-wrongdoing wonder who put her there.
It’s been almost 30 years since Selena’s life was tragically cut short in 1995, when Yolanda, her former fan club president turned financial scammer, shot her in the back at a Days Inn in Corpus Christi, Texas. (Yes, this woman managed to be a bad friend, bad accountant, and bad decision-maker all at once.)
Since then, Yolanda has been serving a life sentence at the Patrick L. O’Daniel Unit in Gatesville, where she’s probably gotten really good at prison bingo and regretting life choices. She had her hopes up this week for an early release, but according to legal experts, the denial was about as shocking as discovering water is wet.
The decision came down to three people, who likely took one look at the case, exchanged knowing glances, and collectively said, “Yeah, that’s gonna be a no from us.”
So, the verdict is in: Yolanda’s still got plenty more time to enjoy her gray jumpsuit and prison cafeteria cuisine. And the world continues to honor Selena, the eternal queen of Tejano music.
