Putting early paroles on ice for a while
We like the approach being taken by Marc Dreyer, chairman of the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board, on the issue of inmates being considered for early parole.
The board’s previous practice of not clearly indicating on its agendas which inmates were being considered for early parole or commutation resulted in a criminal investigation by Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater.
Last month, the board discussed changing its procedures. This week, Dreyer said the board wouldn’t make any changes for several months, in order to allow folks plenty of time to register their thoughts. That’s a smart move.
Citizens can take Dreyer up on his offer by emailing comments to tracy.george@ppb.ok.gov or mailing them to Tracy George, General Counsel, Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board, First National Center, 120 N Robinson Ave. Suite 900W, Oklahoma City, 73102.
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Perhaps modify the current plan: hold off til summer on any and all violent and 85% rule offenders’ considerations for early release, but begin immediately again with nonviolent offenders. The oklahoma prison system is overburdened, full beyond capacity, and the parole board works long and very hard maintaining amazingly detailed protocols and care, doing an extraordinary job. Early consideration for nonviolent offenders should resume immediately.