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The State Board of Pardons and Paroles surprised two state inmates at Lee Arrendale State Prison in January, delivering parole certificates. Board Members James Mills and David Herring presented the certificates to the inmates in person.
“When we have an opportunity, we want the inmate population to witness the success of those inmates who have shown through their actions that they’re ready to be paroled,” stated Board Member James Mills.
The two inmates had completed necessary programming. Successful program completions and the elimination of conduct issues are two of the areas board members consider when determining who will be paroled.
“We believe it can be an effective message and our hope is that the inmate population is taking notice and understands that success while incarcerated can lead to a parole release,” stated Board Member David Herring.
Jessica Davis and Arnisia Williams were the inmates notified of their parole.
Parole Board Chairman Terry Barnard delivered a parole certificate to resident Kenny Jones at the Augusta Transitional Center in December.
"Offenders who successfully complete the Department of Corrections work release program often demonstrate positive change. They prove their self worth by maintaining gainful employment and are less likely to re-offend. This type of discipline is one of many variables the Parole Board evaluates as parole ready," stated Barnard.
Parole Board Members and executive staff of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles often visit Department of Corrections facilities and engage the inmate population. This includes Clemency hearing examiners interviewing offenders in order to ensure the board members have all available information before making a parole decision.
Part of the Parole Board's mission is providing offenders with opportunities for positive change. Inmates at Rogers State Prison recently heard that message from the Exec. Director of Parole Chris Barnett.
Barnett discussed with them the opportunities and responsibility a parole release would bring.
"Offenders should focus on showing how they have taken advantage of programming, eliminated misconduct and they should be assisting other inmates around them, bringing other inmates up and getting them parole ready," stated Barnett.
"We will continue to engage the offender population in order to serve public safety," he added.
Barnett says the Board is looking for individuals ready to be successful returning citizens.
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“When we have an opportunity, we want the inmate population to witness the success of those inmates who have shown through their actions that they’re ready to be paroled,” - Board Member James Mills
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Parole Review/Spring 2019