After 53 years in jail, RFK assassin Sirhan Sirhan has a good shot at parole

Sirhan Sirhan shot and killed Robert Kennedy in 1968, saving him from a humiliating election defeat by Richard Nixon that would have forever changed American political life. Today Sirhan was granted parole.

Two of Kennedy's surviving sons, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Douglas Kennedy offered their support for parole during Sirhan's 16th appearance before the parole board Friday.

"I'm overwhelmed just by being able to view Mr. Sirhan face to face. I think I've lived my life both in fear of him and his name in one way or another. And I am grateful today to see him as a human being worthy of compassion and love," said Douglas Kennedy, acknowledging the great responsibility on the shoulders of the parole board.