Albuquerque man set for parole after serving half of sentence
After eight years in prison, Justin Hansen’s projected release has renewed fear and frustration for Brittani Marcell’s family.
Justin Hansen, who was convicted of attacking Brittani Marcell with a shovel inside her Albuquerque home in 2008, is projected to be released from prison in December after serving about half of an 18-year sentence.
Hansen is scheduled to appear before the New Mexico Parole Board on Sept. 18. During the hearing, the board will establish the conditions of his release for a two-year parole term. The New Mexico Corrections Department said his projected release date could change based on factors including his conduct while incarcerated.
Marcell’s family said they were shocked, disappointed and afraid after learning Hansen could soon be released.
Marcell nearly died in the attack and initially had no memory of what happened. Seven years later, she recalled Hansen’s name, and his DNA was matched to evidence collected at the scene.
Hansen pleaded no contest in 2018 and was sentenced to 18 years in prison. He entered NMCD custody in July 2018.
The department said Hansen’s offenses are not classified as serious violent offenses under state law, meaning he is required to serve 50% of his sentence. Hansen also received slightly more than one year of credit for time spent in custody before sentencing and a four-month lump-sum credit for earning an associate degree.
Brittani Marcell’s sister, Alicia Marcell, said the prospect of Hansen’s release has renewed the family’s fear.
“She’s going to have her 27th surgery in October, and it won’t ever stop for her,” Alicia Marcell said. “This is the end for him. He gets to walk out of prison, and she’s sort of in this medical prison of sorts as well.”
“So, we’re doing it for her because we can’t give her back what he took,” she added. “Nobody can, unfortunately.”
The family is asking the parole board to impose the strictest conditions allowed, including restrictions intended to prevent Hansen from contacting or approaching Brittani Marcell and her relatives.
The Corrections Department said its victim services team has remained in close contact with Brittani Marcell’s family throughout the process.
