Parole denied in murder case

A Modesto man convicted of killing his girlfriend in 1979 was denied parole last week at the California state prison, Solano, in Vacaville.

According to the Stanislaus County district attorney's office, Glenn Dennison, 60, refused to attend the hearing, where he was found unsuitable for parole.

Deputy District Attorney Doug Maner argued for continued confinement based on the brutal and violent nature of the crime, lengthy previous criminal record, unstable social history and inadequate parole plans.

On Oct. 13, 1979, Dennison beat and then strangled his girlfriend, Martha Sory, after threatening to kill her for spending time with other men.

Dennison was convicted of murder in 1980 and is serving a term of 15 years to life. While in prison, authorities said, Dennison has committed crimes that include conspiracy to commit homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, fighting, and intoxication.

He has been denied parole eight previous times. He will next be considered for parole in five years.