GACP 1st Quarter Newsletter 2020 2020_1stQrtrNewsletter | Page 9

While the Board makes every effort to locate victims who are not registered with the state, crime victims are encouraged to register at the time of sentencing through the local district attorney’s office or by contacting the Georgia Office of Victim Services. Registration ensures notification regarding the parole status of the offender, pending decisions and release information and most importantly ensures the victim’s information is considered by the Board prior to a parole decision. The Board and the Georgia Office of Victim Services are now in the planning stages for the next Victim Visitors’ Day in Athens in April. Contact the Georgia Office of Victim Services at 404-651- 6668 or 1-800-593-9474 to learn more about services and registration. You may reach the State Board of Pardons and Paroles at 404-657-9450. About the author: Steve Hayes is the director of com- munications for the State Board of Pardons and Pa- roles. The office is responsible for internal and external communications and distribution of public information. You may contact him at [email protected]. Photo above: Chairman Terry Barnard meeting with a crime victim at a Victi Visitors' Day www.gachiefs.com • Page 9 • 1st Quarter Newsletter