Senate Bill 240, sponsored by Sen. Will Barfoot, proposes allowing incarcerated individuals to participate in parole hearings via video conference or phone, extending the same option to crime victims and their families. This follows previous stalled efforts, with support from Victims of Crimes and Leniency who found common ground with lawmakers.
Under current law, incarcerated people cannot participate in their own parole hearings . Senate Bill 240, sponsored by Sen. Will Barfoot, would allow them to participate by video conference or by phone.
The bill also extends that option to crime victims and their families. This is not Barfoot’s first attempt at passing this type of legislation. Previous efforts have stalled. Victims of Crimes and Leniency — a nonprofit known as VOCAL — had previously opposed such a measure but later worked with lawmakers to ensure victims and their families would have the same virtual participation option.Wanda Miller, executive director of VOCAL, said the process demonstrated that opposing sides could find common ground. “But in this situation, it proves that we can come together and talk about the issues that both sides of the table have and come up with some good solutions,” Miller said. “And I feel like that’s what happened here. And I do appreciate the opportunity for us to be heard about what we could do to help victims. I think it’s going to be a good program.” Miller said victims and their families face challenges attending in-person parole hearings, including traveling long distances, and that the virtual option would provide significant relief.Download the WTVY News4 app to get alerts and stories the moment they are published. Available for FREE in theDothan leaders look to Nevada to find blueprint for new arenaDothan leaders look to Nevada to find blueprint for new arenaSlocomb farm steps up for wildfire victims hundreds of miles away
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