Pataki
eyes end of Parole BoardUnion urges caution in revamping parole
By Denyce Duncan Lacy
Word that Gov. George Pataki again planned to make reform of the state's parole system a major legislative priority drew a swift response from PEF President Roger Benson. In his annual "State of the State" message in early January, the governor said he would propose legislation to end parole for all felons and, instead, require them to serve definite sentences. Inmates would still be able to reduce their sentences by as much as one-seventh. through good behavior in prison.
Within hours of the announcement, Benson told reporters he urged Pataki to move cautiously in proposing reform of the state's parole system.
"PEF opposes any changes that would remove the incentives for inmates to rehabilitate themselves in prison," Benson said. "The parole process needs to be strengthened, not eliminated.
"The possibility for an early release from prison by the state Parole Board is a powerful incentive for inmates to change their behaviors and learn useful skills in prison," Benson added. "This incentive keeps prisons safer. And studies have shown over and over that inmates who have had substance-abuse counseling, vocational and educational programs are less likely to break the law again when they're released."
Benson said PEF is eagerly awaiting details of the proposed legislation and offered to work with state lawmakers and the governor to finalize the proposal.
The union leader added that more parole officers need to be hired to ensure proper supervision of convicted criminals after release. Most officers now carry caseloads of between 75 and 100 felons. The union president recommended parole officers supervising violent felons carry caseloads of no more than 25.
Benson also stressed that PEF shares the objective of the governor's new proposal.
"We want our streets and neighborhoods to be as safe as they can be," Benson said. "Give our members adequate staffing and the tools to do the job and our communities will be safer."