Engaging Public Safety partners
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles supported the annual summer training conference for the Georgia Professional Association of Community Supervision (GPACS) last August. GPACS is the professional training organization in Georgia for the state's community supervision staff. Membership includes staff with the State Board of Pardons and Paroles.
Parole Board Chairman Terry Barnard led a panel discussion for members titled, "From Release to Revocation."
The training workshop produced information and discussion about addressing parole violations to include the working relationship between supervision staff and the Board.
“Everyone needs to clearly understand their role if we are to make the best decisions for offenders regarding violations of parole,” says Chairman Barnard.
"The Board Members need the most complete information possible regarding alleged violations to help us determine the best course of action up to revocation of an offender’s parole. The two agencies work well together to protect the public. This workshop’s goal was to reinforce our roles and commitment to public safety,” added Barnard.
Board Member Jacqueline Bunn participated in a panel discussion titled, "Women in Leadership."
"It was a privilege to share insights and to have an honest discussion about challenges unique to female professionals. The participants were encouraged to continue to aspire to higher heights," stated Bunn.
The panel discussion provided information from strong female leaders providing direction for women currently serving in criminal justice roles.
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles works to enhance public safety by engaging agencies, organizations and stakeholders. Efforts include forging public safety partnerships. During the summer and fall parole leaders took part in conferences, training events and were invited to speak to various groups about the agency's role in Georgia's criminal justice system. "Engaging stakeholders in the parole process continues to be a focus of our agency to ensure the Board Members have all available information when determining who is paroled," stated Chris Barnett, Executive Director of the Parole Board. Barnett and staff attended the fall training conference for the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (GACDL) in November.
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Georgia Parole Review