Richard Allen Davis

Richard Allen Davis (prison photograph) - 20070615

Richard Allen Davis

Richard Allen Davis is an American criminal known for his involvement in the high-profile kidnapping and murder case of Polly Klaas in 1993. Born on June 2, 1954, Davis has a criminal history that includes various offenses such as burglary, assault, and drug-related crimes.

Early Life

Davis was born in San Francisco, California and grew up in a troubled environment. He had a difficult childhood marked by abuse and neglect, which may have contributed to his later criminal behavior.

Criminal Activities

Throughout his life, Davis was in and out of the criminal justice system. He had a history of violent behavior and substance abuse issues. In 1993, he committed the heinous crime of kidnapping and murdering Polly Klaas, a 12-year-old girl from Petaluma, California. The case shocked the nation and led to widespread changes in laws regarding parole and sentencing for violent offenders.

Arrest and Conviction

After an extensive manhunt, Davis was apprehended and charged with the abduction and murder of Polly Klaas. He was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to death in 1996. Despite numerous appeals and legal challenges, his conviction was upheld, and he remains on death row at San Quentin State Prison.

Legacy

The case of Richard Allen Davis and Polly Klaas had a profound impact on the criminal justice system in the United States. It highlighted the need for stricter laws to prevent violent offenders from reoffending and sparked debates about the death penalty and victims' rights.

See Also

• Polly Klaas
• San Francisco, California
• Petaluma, California
• San Quentin State Prison