Commonwealth’s Attorney writes Parole Board seeking denial of parole in two local cases

To the Public,

I am writing to share information regarding upcoming parole hearings that could impact our community and to explain my role in that process.

Despite a common misconception, Virginia law still permits parole for certain offenders. The law determines who is eligible for parole and the Virginia Parole Board decides whether an eligible individual will be granted or denied release. As Commonwealth’s Attorney, my role in these decisions is to provide the Board with information and my recommendation on behalf of the Commonwealth. Although that input is important, the final decision rests with the Board.

 

Criminal cases encompass a broad range of conduct, bookended by non-violent offenses on the low end and deliberate serious violent offenses on the high end. I believe that our local criminal justice system does a good job of recognizing opportunities for second chances and offering support to those who need help, particularly on the low end of that range.

 

At the same time, I also believe that our community deserves to know my position when individuals convicted of serious, violent crimes are being considered for parole. For that reason, I have attached my recent correspondence to the Virginia Parole Board concerning two such cases.

 

I encourage you to review these letters and reach your own conclusions based on the facts presented. In doing so, I urge you to consider the seriousness of the crimes, their lasting impacts on the victims and their families and the safety of our community.

 

Thank you for taking the time to stay informed about these matters. I remain committed to serving the citizens of Pulaski County with transparency and advocacy for justice and public safety.

 

Respectfully,

 

Justin L. Griffith,

Commonwealth’s Attorney Pulaski County