Nys Senate Passes Legislation Allowing Victims A Greater Say In Parole Hearings

GOLDEN JOINS SENATE PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION ALLOWING CRIME VICTIMS TO KNOW

WHEN PERPETRATORS ARE UP FOR PAROLE

State Senator Martin J. Golden, (R-C, Brooklyn), a former New York Ctiy Police Officer, today joined his colleagues in the New York State Senate in passing legislation that would allow crime victims, upon request, to be notified of a parole hearing involving the perpetrator of the crime. The bill (S268-A), sponsored by Senator Jim Alesi (R-C, Perinton), would ensure that victims, and in some cases family members, are given every opportunity to participate in the parole process.

Senator Marty Golden stated, "Having served as a New York City Police Officer, at the many crime scenes where arrests have been made, I know first hand that following the proceedings of the judicial system, when a perpetrator is released on parole, the victim’s anxiety and trauma can increases dramatically. This bill will give them some comfort in dealing with a prisoner’s potential release."

"For too long crime victims haven’t been able to fully participate in the parole process," continued Senator Golden. "This bill will allow any crime victim who wants to have their voice heard to do so. Not only will this legislation help the victims, it will allow members of the Parole Board to better understand the impact individual criminals have had on their victims which is an important component in and of itself."

Current law only allows crime victims to submit a victim impact statement to the Parole Board and there is no provision to notify the crime victim when the parole hearing will be held. This bill corrects that situation by requiring a notice be sent by first class mail to certain crime victims at least 60 days prior to the hearing.

The bill was sent to the Assembly.