Why is the Parole Board on the Governor’s Back Burner?

 

Please read and share my newest which shows how little attention states are paying to

         When we asked “Why is the Parole Board on the Governor’s Back Burner?” here’s what we found.  Prisoner rights advocates say outgoing Chair Tina Hurley was dedicated and effective. So why is she leaving and who will replace her? MORE

 

GRADING THE PAROLE BOARD

My newest on the Massachusetts Parole Board on Boston Institute for Nonprofit Journalism It  asks “The Massachusetts Parole Board still faces big challenges despite making some improvements this past year. Its final member was approved this week, but is the body equipped to operate efficiently?”  MORE

DOES A NEW GOVERNOR SIGNAL A NEW DIRECTION FOR THE MASS PAROLE BOARD?

Please see my newest at Boston Institute for Nonprofit Journalism (BINJ) here It begins:

“On Aug. 31, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey nominated social justice advocate and social worker Sarah Coughlin to the state’s Parole Board, and stated in a press release that Coughlin shared “the administration’s commitment to making our criminal justice system more just and equitable for all.”

Coughlin is currently the director of community engagement and partnerships at Mass General Brigham, and has wide-ranging experience with incarcerated and formerly incarcerated men and women in re-entry, substance use disorder, trauma,and healing.”  MORE

The Gov. Council is at it Again


Please see my newest article at DIGBoston

It begins: Unruly, Argumentative Gov. Council Infllames Parole Board Hearings
“There was high drama on display again at a Massachusetts Governor’s Council meeting at the State House last week. During two nomination hearings on June 15, councilors argued with each other, used their podiums to air their pet peeves, and insulted and cut off witnesses.”

 

First Lifer Commutation in Mass. Since 1997 Goes to Gov. Council


Please see my newest article about the commutation hearing of Tom Koonce (pictured above on left). The support, including his son (Thomas Andrews on right) was enormous. A 9 1/2 hour hearing before the Gov. Council and all that came with it is detailed in my newest article for DigBoston. If Council approves the commutation, then Koonce will apply for parole. Read and share!