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Summer Engagement Produces Stronger Criminal Justice Collaboration
Public safety for Georgians continues to be enhanced through the collaboration between the State Board of Pardons and Paroles and its criminal justice partner agencies.
Parole leadership strengthened partnerships this summer with law enforcement, the judiciary and other stakeholders in the parole process.
In July, Executive Director of Parole, Chris Barnett and his leadership staff met with the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP) and the Georgia Sheriffs' Association.
“Our relationship with the GACP membership benefits public safety,” stated Barnett. “Lines of communication between the Board and Georgia’s police departments result in a fully informed parole board as they determine whether to release an eligible offender to parole."
Likewise communication is a necessary with Georgia's sheriffs.
"The sharing of information between the Board and sheriffs provides comprehensive and timely information regarding offenders under parole consideration, which results in an informed parole decision,'' said Barnett. Barnett, Clemency Director Crystal Moon, Field Services Director Felecia Holloway and Communications Director Steve Hayes engaged Georgia sheriffs.
"Georgia sheriffs are not only key stakeholders in the parole process, they are on the front line ensuring Georgia remains
a safe place to live, work and raise a family," added Director Barnett.
The Council of Superior Court Judges of Georgia was included on Parole's summer engagement tour.
Parole Board Member Meg Heap, Executive Director Chris Barnett, and Clemency Director Crystal Moon participated.
Heap said, "As parole board members our professional ties to the judges are important as we determine whether to release an offender on parole."
"We were able to connect with many of the Superior Court Judges during their conference. It's important that they're aware they can provide information to our board members regarding offender cases at any point during the consideration process," added Barnett.
(More Summer Engagement next page)
Georgia Parole Review Summer 2023