John Lennon's Killer, Mark David Chapman, Denied Parole For The 7th Time

Mark David Chapman, the man who murdered John Lennon, has been denied parole for the seventh time since his sentencing in 1981, according to Fox News. The legendary Beatle was shot four times outside of his apartment at The Dakota by Chapman, who fired five rounds from a .38 special revolver. Chapman was found at the scene reading "Catcher In The Rye."

The New York Department of Corrections says Chapman was denied parole on Wednesday, marking the seventh time the convicted murderer was denied freedom. He was sentenced to twenty years to life in prison as a result of the murder of Lennon, after pleading guilty to second-degree murder.

The 57-year old Chapman was transferred from Attica Correctional Facility to Wende Correctional Facility, which is nearby. The change in venue happened in May and both are maximum security level facilities. While the reason for the transfer is unknown, the Department of Corrections doesn't issue reasons as to why prisoners are moved around.

Chapman will face at least two more years behind bars, according to the Daily News. The parole board apparently stated during the hearing in 1980 that Chapman "clearly demonstrated a callous disregard for the sanctity of human life," adding "parole shall not be granted for good conduct and program completions alone."

Chapman is kept in a secure housing unit for his own safety, away from other inmates who may see him as a high-profile target, even behind iron bars. Yoko Ono has spoken against Chapman's release, citing that she fears for the safety of her family, as well as for the safety of Chapman himself, thinking that Lennon fans, furious with his potential release, might take matters into their own hands and exact revenge.