California is facing fierce criticism after it was revealed that an illegal immigrant convicted of killing two teenagers in a high-speed, drug-fueled crash was set for early release—until federal authorities intervened. The fallout has reignited debates over public safety, sanctuary policies, and the state’s controversial in-prison credit programs.

Oscar Eduardo Ortega-Anguiano, 43, was convicted in 2022 of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated after a horrific crash in 2021. Ortega-Anguiano, drunk, high, and speeding at nearly 100 mph, slammed into a vehicle carrying 19-year-olds Anya Varfolomeev and Nicholay Osokin on the 405 freeway in Seal Beach. Both teens burned to death inside their car.

Despite a 10-year sentence, Ortega-Anguiano was slated for release in July—after serving just three and a half years—thanks to California’s early release credit system. That release was quietly planned until the Department of Justice and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stepped in following a Fox News report that drew national outrage.

According to ICE, Ortega-Anguiano had previously entered the country illegally twice and already had a criminal record prior to the fatal crash.

California State Senator Tony Strickland, a Republican representing the district where the crash occurred, is now demanding reforms. “We need to reform these programs,” he told Fox News Digital. “If you commit a crime, you should do the time. These programs are not making us safer—they’re making us less safe.”

Strickland called the planned release a “slap in the face” to the victims’ families and blamed the state’s leadership for prioritizing criminals over law-abiding citizens. “Governor Newsom is too busy running for president to do his job,” Strickland said. “The supermajority is tone-deaf.”

California’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) defended its policies, citing “rehabilitative programming” as the basis for early release credits. But Strickland said public safety is being sacrificed for progressive optics.

“What about accountability? What about the families of Anya and Nicholay?” Strickland asked. “This is a complete failure of leadership.”

Public outrage intensified when it was revealed the victims’ families were informed of the early release on Easter Sunday. After the story went public, the DOJ announced it would pursue federal charges to keep Ortega-Anguiano locked up.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s office issued a vague statement saying it would “coordinate” with ICE to ensure the convict is transferred before release. But critics argue that Newsom’s hands-off approach reflects a larger pattern of neglect.

ICE’s statement confirmed the danger Ortega-Anguiano poses to the public and outlined plans to prosecute him under federal immigration law. “For safety and security reasons, CDCR cannot provide information on an incarcerated person’s release date,” the agency said, raising further questions about transparency.

This isn’t the first time California’s liberal policies have sparked outrage, but Strickland believes this case will galvanize voters. “People are waking up to what’s happening in Sacramento,” he said. “There’s a growing awareness, and that’s where change begins.”

With crime, illegal immigration, and early release policies dominating headlines, this case serves as a lightning rod for reform. Strickland and others say it’s time for accountability—not just for criminals, but for the politicians enabling them.

“The good news is, Californians are waking up,” Strickland concluded. “The Golden State can shine again—but only if we have the courage to lead.”