BY MATTHEW WINTER
SALISBURY POST

RALEIGH – The state Parole Commission has denied early release to Roger Warren Clark, a Concord man convicted of the 1978 murder of a Midland woman, the victim’s mother said this morning.

Clark was convicted in 1979 of murdering Phoebe Barbee, 19. The former homecoming queen disappeared after work on Sept. 22, 1978. Squirrel hunters discovered her badly beaten body the next day in a field in southern Cabarrus County. She had been sexually assaulted.

However, Roxy Barbee of Midland – Phoebe’s mother – said this morning by phone she received a letter from the N.C. Parole Commission announcing that the panel had denied parole to Clark. The letter was signed by Juanita H. Baker, commission chairman, Barbee said.

‘‘We’re thankful he was denied parole,’’ Barbee said. ‘‘I feel like he should serve the rest of his natural-born life in prison for killing my daughter.’’

During Clark’s trial, prosecutors argued successfully that the 21-year-old former mechanic had kidnapped Phoebe after convincing her that her vehicle was malfunctioning and offering her a ride. Clark had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. A jury convicted him after brief deliberations.

Clark will become eligible for parole June 11, and the state parole panel apparently decided against his release during a hearing that began March 11.

The commission refused to announce its decision last week due to its policy of notifying inmates and victims’ families first, according to Melita Groomes, commission director. Groomes said the commission will announce its decision this afternoon.

The board’s decision to deny early release to Clark did not surprise Barbee. She and other relatives led a letter-writing and petition campaign that encouraged thousands of people to get in touch with parole officials about the case. Her family also visited Raleigh earlier this month to talk with commission members.

Parole officials told the family Clark was not a good candidate for parole, and most first-time candidates for parole are denied release, Barbee said.

Clark is serving two consecutive life sentences. He will be reviewed again for parole next year on March 11.

Barbee intends to be there with her family to speak out against his release.