A Massachusetts man dubbed "the Vampire Killer" after he shot his disabled grandmother to death and tried to drink her blood has gone before the state parole board to ask for his freedom.
James Riva has been in prison since he was convicted of murder and arson in the 1980 slaying of 74-year-old Carmen Lopez in the town of Marshfield.
Prosecutors say he stabbed her in the heart, shot her with gold-painted bullets and set her house on fire to cover his tracks.
The 52-year-old Riva's hearing before the parole board marks the second time he has asked for parole. In 2004, the board rejected his request.
The parole board typically makes a decision within 30 days.
A defence lawyer said at trial Riva had long battled mental illness.
AP