Engaging Criminal Justice Partners
Georgia Parole Review
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The State Board of Pardons and Paroles is engaging stakeholders and criminal justice partners in the parole process.
In early March, parole leadership sat down with new Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) Commissioner Tyrone Oliver and his staff at State Offices South in Forsyth.
Chris Barnett, the Executive Director of the Parole Board, along with Deputy Director Rita Rocker and agency staff were among those meeting with GDC staff.
“Both of our agencies are partners working toward successful reentry and positive outcomes for offenders leaving GDC facilities. Parole and corrections are working together to ensure our communities are safe and the best state to raise a family. We had an excellent meeting with Commissioner Oliver and his staff,” stated Barnett.
Commissioner Oliver successfully operated the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice from July of 2019 prior to his appointment to lead GDC.
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles is among the local, state and federal agencies and organizations participating in the Georgia Anti-Gang Network. Parole leadership led by Executive Director of Parole Chris Barnett attended meetings in Athens, Griffin and Columbus during the first quarter. Representatives from agencies and organizations updated Attorney General Chris Carr regarding efforts to combat gang activity in Georgia.
Director Barnett stated communication is key.
"The State Board of Pardons and Paroles is a partner in combating gang activity in Georgia. If we can receive information regarding individuals involved in gang activity that information is important to the Board. Those offenders serve more time in Georgia," he told Attorney General Carr. Barnett pledged the agency's continued commitment, support and assistance in fighting gang activity.
In Griffin, Georgia Office of Victim Services Director Rita Rocker spoke on behalf of crime victims.
"We recognize the importance of the work you do to help bring justice and healing to those affected by the criminal activity of gangs," Rocker stated.
The Georgia Sheriffs’ Association in Madison hosted the Parole Board for a training event in February.
Applied Research Services, Inc. (ARS) and the Center for Effective Public Policy joined parole staff, including Board Members and Georgia Department of Community Supervision (DCS) staff for discussions about successful reentry. DCS updated the Board on various programs the department operates to facilitate successful offender reentry.