Parole
BOPP Annual Report FY2017 — Georgia Parole Board
The Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles FY2017 Annual Report documents a continued decline in parole releases (10,468, down 2,906 from FY16) alongside a rise in average time served for life-sentenced offenders to over 26 years. The Board implemented an updated Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System based on 26,000+ cases and expanded stakeholder notifications, including 3,272 secondary solicitations to judges and prosecutors. The report highlights a 71% Georgia parole completion rate versus a 62% national average, and calculates $377 million in annual cost avoidance from parole supervision compared to incarceration.
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection.
71%
Parole Completion Rate
Statistic26
Life Sentences Average 21 Years Served
StatisticParole Revocations Increasing Trend
Trend$377.0M
Over $377 Million Annual Cost Avoidance
StatisticAll Data Points
354 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
FY17 Total Clemency Decisions Statistic
In Fiscal Year 2017, the Board Members made 71,969 clemency decisions. This total includes all Board decisions which require a vote and multiple decisions in each offender's case considered during the fiscal year. This total does not reflect the tot…
71,969 decisions
FY17 Total Prison Releases by Parole Statistic
The Parole Board released 10,468 offenders from prison through all forms of clemency to include releasing inmates on parole during the fiscal year. This total represented 2,906 fewer releases from the previous fiscal year.
10,468 offenders vs. fewer releases than previous fiscal year
FY16 Total Prison Releases by Parole Statistic
The Parole Board released 13,374 offenders from prison in FY16, based on the FY17 report noting FY17 releases were 2,906 fewer than the previous fiscal year.
13,374 offenders
FY15 Total Prison Releases by Parole Statistic
The Parole Board released 13,520 offenders from prison in FY15.
13,520 offenders
FY14 Total Prison Releases by Parole Statistic
The Parole Board released 16,212 offenders from prison in FY14.
16,212 offenders
FY13 Total Prison Releases by Parole Statistic
The Parole Board released 15,634 offenders from prison in FY13.
15,634 offenders
FY17 Parole Completion Rate Statistic
Georgia's percentage of parolees successfully completing parole in FY17 was 71%. The national average was an estimated 62%.
71% vs. national average
FY17 Parole Population Decrease Statistic
During Fiscal Year 2017, the population of offenders on parole under community supervision decreased from 22,901 on July 1, 2016, to 22,737 on June 30, 2017.
22,737 offenders vs. population on July 1, 2016
FY17 Cumulative Parole Supervision Population Statistic
The cumulative number of offenders under parole supervision in Georgia during the fiscal year was 34,610.
34,610 offenders
FY17 Parole Discharges Statistic
The number of offenders discharging from parole was 8,770 in FY17.
8,770 offenders
FY17 Parole Revocations Statistic
During FY17, the Board revoked 2,681 parole violators returning the offenders to prison to serve their sentences in confinement. The number revoked increased by 176 from the previous fiscal year.
2,681 revocations vs. increase from previous fiscal year
FY16 Parole Revocations Statistic
The Board revoked 2,505 parole violators in FY16.
2,505 revocations
FY15 Parole Revocations Statistic
The Board revoked 2,655 parole violators in FY15.
2,655 revocations
FY14 Parole Revocations Statistic
The Board revoked 2,380 parole violators in FY14.
2,380 revocations
FY13 Parole Revocations Statistic
The Board revoked 2,199 parole violators in FY13.
2,199 revocations
FY17 Technical Violation Revocation Rate Statistic
Of the FY17 total number of revocations, less than 1% were revoked on the basis of technical violations only which include, but not limited to, drug use, curfew violations, or failure to pay fines and fees.
1%
FY17 Parole Board Warrants Issued Statistic
In FY17, a total of 7,765 warrants were issued by the Parole Board.
7,765 warrants
FY17 GCIC/NCIC Warrant Entries Statistic
In FY17, the GCIC Unit entered 4,300 warrants into the GCIC/NCIC system.
4,300 warrants
FY17 Final Revocation Hearings Statistic
Parole Board Members conducted 366 final revocation hearings during FY17.
366 hearings
FY17 Preliminary Revocation Hearings Statistic
There were 145 preliminary revocation hearings in FY17.
145 hearings
FY17 Clemency Investigations Completed Statistic
In FY17, the clemency investigators completed 36,660 investigations for the Parole Board.
36,660 investigations
FY17 Offender Files Initiated for Consideration Statistic
In FY17, there were 20,112 offender files initiated for consideration by the Clemency Division.
20,112 files
FY17 CONS Notifications Generated Statistic
In FY17, 28,867 notifications (all types) were generated by CONS (Clemency Online Navigation System).
28,867 notifications
FY17 Preconditions to Parole Imposed Statistic
There were 12,997 preconditions to parole imposed by the Board on inmates during the fiscal year.
12,997 preconditions
FY17 Secondary Solicitations to Judges and Prosecutors Statistic
For FY17, 3,272 second solicitations/notifications were sent to judges and prosecutors.
3,272 notifications
FY17 Pardon and Restoration Applications Received Statistic
In FY17, 1,068 pardon and restoration of rights applications were received. There were 411 fewer applications received during the fiscal year compared to the previous year.
1,068 applications vs. fewer than previous year
FY17 Pardon and Restoration Applications Granted Statistic
In FY17, 719 pardon and restoration of rights applications were granted (all types). There was a grant increase of 32 over the number of applications approved by the Board the previous year.
719 applications vs. increase over previous year
FY17 Pardons Granted Without Firearms Restored Statistic
In FY17, 249 pardons were granted without firearms being restored.
249 pardons
FY17 Pardons Granted With Firearms Restored Statistic
In FY17, 341 pardons were granted with firearms being restored.
341 pardons
FY17 Restorations of Civil and Political Rights Statistic
In FY17, 105 restorations of civil and political rights were granted.
105 restorations
FY17 Restorations of Civil and Political Rights With Firearms Statistic
In FY17, 24 restorations of civil and political rights were granted with firearms restored.
24 restorations
FY17 Pardon Notifications Sent Statistic
During FY17, the Parole Board sent 722 notifications regarding ex-offenders applying for pardons.
722 notifications
FY17 Life Sentence Cases Granted Parole Statistic
In FY17, 104 life sentence cases were granted parole.
104 cases
FY17 Life Sentence Cases Denied Parole Statistic
In FY17, 1,471 life sentence cases were denied parole.
1,471 cases
FY17 Total Life Sentence Case Decisions Statistic
In FY17, there were 1,575 total life sentence case decisions.
1,575 decisions
FY16 Life Sentence Cases Granted Parole Statistic
In FY16, 151 life sentence cases were granted parole.
151 cases
FY16 Life Sentence Cases Denied Parole Statistic
In FY16, 1,230 life sentence cases were denied parole.
1,230 cases
FY15 Life Sentence Cases Granted Parole Statistic
In FY15, 133 life sentence cases were granted parole.
133 cases
FY15 Life Sentence Cases Denied Parole Statistic
In FY15, 1,145 life sentence cases were denied parole.
1,145 cases
FY14 Life Sentence Cases Granted Parole Statistic
In FY14, 144 life sentence cases were granted parole.
144 cases
FY14 Life Sentence Cases Denied Parole Statistic
In FY14, 1,504 life sentence cases were denied parole.
1,504 cases
FY13 Life Sentence Cases Granted Parole Statistic
In FY13, 163 life sentence cases were granted parole.
163 cases
FY13 Life Sentence Cases Denied Parole Statistic
In FY13, 577 life sentence cases were denied parole.
577 cases
Average Prison Time Served for Life Sentences in 2017 Statistic
In 2017, a life-sentenced inmate served on average more than 26 years in prison prior to being released.
26 years
Average Prison Time Served for Life Sentences in 2010 Statistic
By 2010, the average time served on a life sentence was nearly 20 years.
20 years
Average Prison Time Served for Life Sentences in 2000 Statistic
By year 2000, the average time served on a life sentence had risen to more than 15 years.
15 years
Average Prison Time Served for Life Sentences in 1973 Statistic
In 1973, life-sentenced inmates convicted of serious violent felonies served less than nine years in prison, on average, before being released from prison.
9 years
FY17 Annual Cost Avoidance from Parole Statistic
In FY17, the annual cost avoidance to the prison system as a result of offenders serving their sentence on parole is calculated at $377,115,611.
$377.1M
FY16 Annual Cost Avoidance from Parole Statistic
In FY16, the annual cost avoidance to the prison system as a result of offenders serving their sentence on parole was $450 million.
$450.0M
FY15 Annual Cost Avoidance from Parole Statistic
In FY15, the annual cost avoidance to the prison system as a result of offenders serving their sentence on parole was $451 million.
$451.0M
FY14 Annual Cost Avoidance from Parole Statistic
In FY14, the annual cost avoidance to the prison system as a result of offenders serving their sentence on parole was $469 million.
$469.0M
FY13 Annual Cost Avoidance from Parole Statistic
In FY13, the annual cost avoidance to the prison system as a result of offenders serving their sentence on parole was $409 million.
$409.0M
FY17 Prison Incarceration Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Corrections cost per day submitted for FY17 is $53.76.
$53.76
FY17 Parole Supervision Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Community Supervision cost per day submitted for FY17 is $2.12.
$2.12
FY16 Prison Incarceration Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Corrections cost per day submitted for FY16 was $52.95.
$52.95
FY16 Parole Supervision Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Community Supervision cost per day submitted for FY16 was $3.54.
$3.54
FY15 Prison Incarceration Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Corrections cost per day submitted for FY15 was $52.81.
$52.81
FY15 Parole Supervision Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Community Supervision cost per day submitted for FY15 was $4.03.
$4.03
FY14 Prison Incarceration Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Corrections cost per day submitted for FY14 was $52.81.
$52.81
FY14 Parole Supervision Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Community Supervision cost per day submitted for FY14 was $4.49.
$4.49
FY13 Prison Incarceration Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Corrections cost per day submitted for FY13 was $53.00.
$53.00
FY13 Parole Supervision Cost Per Day Statistic
The Department of Community Supervision cost per day submitted for FY13 was $4.32.
$4.32
FY17 Total Agency Expenditures Statistic
FY 2017 Expenditures totaled $16,846,903.
$16.8M
FY17 State Funds Budget Statistic
In FY17, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles had $16,625,503 in state funds.
$16.6M
FY17 Other Funds Statistic
In FY17, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles had $221,288 in other funds.
$221,288
FY17 Federal Funds Statistic
In FY17, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles had $112 in federal funds.
$112.00
FY17 Personal Services Expenditures Statistic
In FY17, personal services expenditures were $14,759,063.
$14.8M
FY17 Regular Operating Expenditures Statistic
In FY17, regular operating expenditures were $532,295.
$532,295
FY17 Computer Charges Expenditures Statistic
In FY17, computer charges expenditures were $175,051.
$175,051
FY17 Real Estate Rental Expenditures Statistic
In FY17, real estate rental expenditures were $415,805.
$415,805
FY17 Telecommunications Expenditures Statistic
In FY17, telecommunications expenditures were $167,320.
$167,320
FY17 Contracts Expenditures Statistic
In FY17, contracts expenditures were $487,139.
$487,139
FY17 County Jail Subsidy Expenditures Statistic
In FY17, county jail subsidy expenditures were $310,230.
$310,230
FY17 Funds Transferred to DCS Statistic
In FY17, PAP transferred $29,720,450 in state funds, mainly for payroll, to DCS.
$29.7M
FY16 Executive Order Transfer to DCS Statistic
An Executive Order transferred $10,058,280 to the Department of Community Supervision at the beginning of FY2016.
$10.1M
Agency Budget Decrease Since FY2016 Statistic
The agency budget has decreased by over 70% since the beginning of FY 2016.
70%
FY17 Total Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 184 employees in FY17: 53 sworn and 131 non-sworn; 35 male and 149 female.
184 employees
FY17 Sworn Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 53 sworn employees in FY17.
53 employees
FY17 Non-Sworn Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 131 non-sworn employees in FY17.
131 employees
FY17 Male Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 35 male employees in FY17.
35 employees
FY17 Female Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 149 female employees in FY17.
149 employees
FY17 Black Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 103 Black employees in FY17.
103 employees
FY17 White Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 76 White employees in FY17.
76 employees
FY17 Multi-Racial Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 1 multi-racial employee in FY17.
1 employee
FY17 Hispanic Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 2 Hispanic employees in FY17.
2 employees
FY17 Asian Employees Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 2 Asian employees in FY17.
2 employees
FY17 Employees Age 20-29 Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 8 employees aged 20-29 in FY17.
8 employees
FY17 Employees Age 30-39 Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 37 employees aged 30-39 in FY17.
37 employees
FY17 Employees Age 40-49 Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 47 employees aged 40-49 in FY17.
47 employees
FY17 Employees Age 50-59 Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 75 employees aged 50-59 in FY17.
75 employees
FY17 Employees Age 60+ Statistic
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles had 17 employees aged 60+ in FY17.
17 employees
FY17 Sworn Training Hours Taken Statistic
In FY17, sworn staff took 3,234 training hours.
3,234 hours
FY17 Non-Sworn Training Hours Taken Statistic
In FY17, non-sworn staff took 1,316 training hours.
1,316 hours
FY17 Training Hours Delivered Within Agency Statistic
In FY17, 1,833 training hours were delivered within the agency.
1,833 hours
FY17 Training Hours Delivered to Outside Stakeholders Statistic
In FY17, 1,616 training hours were delivered to outside stakeholders.
1,616 hours
FY17 Documents Scanned into Case Management Systems Statistic
During FY17, 39,880 documents were scanned into the case management systems (Portal, CONS and TRIM system) utilized by the Board to make parole decisions.
39,880 documents
FY17 Archived Files Imaged Statistic
13,452 archived files were imaged during the fiscal year.
13,452 files
Remaining Archived Files to be Imaged Statistic
There are approximately 183,536 archived files remaining to be imaged.
183,536 files
Scanning and Imaging Transition Completion Statistic
The transition to a paperless environment began in 2010, and is close to 80% complete.
80%
FY17 No Turning Back Recovery Program Admissions Statistic
In FY17, there were 231 admissions to the No Turning Back Recovery Program.
231 admissions
FY17 No Turning Back Recovery Program Graduates Statistic
One hundred eighty-one (181) parolees graduated (including those admitted the previous year) from the No Turning Back Recovery Program and were returned to parole supervision.
181 parolees
FY17 No Turning Back Recovery Program Discharges Statistic
There were 44 discharges from the No Turning Back Recovery Program in FY17. Those offenders were returned to the general prison population.
44 discharges
FY17 Offenders Released to Out-of-State Supervision Statistic
During FY17, the Interstate Compact Unit released 414 offenders to out-of-state supervision.
414 offenders
Georgia Offenders Under Active Parole Supervision in Compact States Statistic
As of June 30, 2017, there were 2,327 Georgia offenders under active parole supervision in Compact states.
2,327 offenders
Compact State Offenders on Parole Supervision in Georgia Statistic
As of June 30, 2017, there were 1,304 other Compact state offenders on parole supervision in Georgia.
1,304 offenders
FY17 Foreign National Offenders Released to ICE Statistic
Via the ICE Rapid REPAT (Removal of Eligible Parolees Accepted for Transfer) Program, 147 foreign national offenders were released to ICE for deportation at an estimated cost avoidance of $8,257,251.66.
147 offenders vs. estimated cost avoidance in dollars
FY17 Victim Phone Calls Handled by Staff Statistic
In FY17, 7,910 phone calls from victims were handled by staff.
7,910 phone calls
FY17 Victim Correspondences Sent Statistic
In FY17, 12,086 correspondences were sent to victims in response to concerns.
12,086 correspondences
FY17 Victim Impact Statements and Notifications Filed Statistic
In FY17, 2,539 victim impact statements and notifications were filed with the office.
2,539 statements and notifications
FY17 New V.I.P. Registrants Statistic
For FY17, there were 2,473 new V.I.P. registrants.
2,473 registrants
FY17 V.I.P. Phone Calls Logged Statistic
For FY17, 6,349 phone calls from victims were logged into the V.I.P. system.
6,349 phone calls
FY17 V.I.P. Calls Made to Victims Statistic
For FY17, the V.I.P. system made 510 calls to victims of crime.
510 calls
FY17 Victim Offender Dialogue Sessions Statistic
In FY17, the Georgia Office of Victim Services conducted seven Victim Offender Dialogue sessions involving victims and offenders.
7 sessions
Total Victims Visitors' Days Conducted Through FY17 Statistic
Through June 30, 2017, the Parole Board has conducted 27 Victims Visitors' Days events across Georgia, meeting with more than 3,300 crime victims and their family members.
27 events vs. victims and family members met
Milledgeville Victims Visitors' Day Attendance Statistic
The second largest attendance in history for a Victims Visitors' Day occurred in Milledgeville as 214 crime victims met with parole staff including Parole Board Members. The victims present represented 100 parole case files reviewed during the day.
214 victims vs. parole case files reviewed
Dahlonega Victims Visitors' Day Attendance Statistic
In recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Parole Board met with 110 crime victims in Dahlonega. The victims present represented forty-eight case files. Victims attending this event came from thirty-one Georgia counties and victims t…
110 victims vs. case files represented
Victims Visitors' Day Satisfaction Rate Statistic
According to exit surveys at two events in FY17, 100% of the victims participating stated that all of their questions were answered to their satisfaction.
100%
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System First Developed Finding
The Board's Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System was first developed in 1979 and codified in 1980 and has been updated several times since.
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System Updated in FY17 Finding
In Fiscal Year 2017, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles completed an update of the Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System. The Board partnered with Applied Research Services (ARS), Inc., to update the guidelines system. Current changes were de…
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System Data Source Statistic
ARS used statistical data from more than 26,000 Georgia parole cases to recommend updates to the guidelines.
26,000 parole cases
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System Effective Date Policy
The updated Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System became effective July 1, 2017.
Parole Decision Guidelines Update: Crime Severity Levels Finding
Updates to the Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System included raising the crime severity level of certain conviction types. The higher the crime severity level, the more serious the offense and the likely result is a recommendation for the offend…
Parole Decision Guidelines Update: Prior Arrest Episodes Finding
On the risk to reoffend scale, the Board now includes prior arrest episodes in place of conviction history for the offender. Research has proven arrests to be a better statistical predictor of future criminal behavior.
Parole Decision Guidelines Update: Sentencing Averages Finding
The updated guidelines take into account statewide sentencing averages and parole decisions by previous boards.
Parole Releases Declining Trend Trend
For a third consecutive year, parole releases were down during FY17. Meanwhile, prison commitments were only slightly up following two successive fiscal year declines.
Life Sentence Time Served Increasing Trend Trend
In 1973, life-sentenced inmates convicted of serious violent felonies served less than nine years in prison, on average, before being released from prison. By year 2000, the average had risen to more than 15 years. By 2010, the average time served o…
Parole Completion Rate Trend Trend
Georgia's parole completion rate was 74% in FY13, 72% in FY14, 72% in FY15, 68% in FY16, and 71% in FY17. The national average was 62% in FY13, 59% in FY14, 59% in FY15, 62% in FY16, and 62% in FY17.
Parole Revocations Increasing Trend Trend
Parole revocations increased from 2,199 in FY13 to 2,380 in FY14, 2,655 in FY15, 2,505 in FY16, and 2,681 in FY17.
Cost Avoidance Trend Trend
Annual cost avoidance from parole decreased from $409 million in FY13 to $469 million in FY14, $451 million in FY15, $450 million in FY16, and $377 million in FY17.
Parole Supervision Cost Per Day Trend Trend
Parole supervision cost per day decreased from $4.32 in FY13 to $4.49 in FY14, $4.03 in FY15, $3.54 in FY16, and $2.12 in FY17.
Prison Incarceration Cost Per Day Trend Trend
Prison incarceration cost per day was $53.00 in FY13, $52.81 in FY14, $52.81 in FY15, $52.95 in FY16, and $53.76 in FY17.
Life Sentence Parole Grants and Denials Trend Trend
Life sentence parole grants decreased from 163 in FY13 to 144 in FY14, 133 in FY15, 151 in FY16, and 104 in FY17. Life sentence parole denials increased from 577 in FY13 to 1,504 in FY14, 1,145 in FY15, 1,230 in FY16, and 1,471 in FY17.
Parole Board Sole Authority for Clemency Legal fact
The Board is the sole authority in the state to make informed decisions on which state inmates are deserving of parole, thereby ensuring that the state's prison beds are dedicated to the offenders who have committed the most serious crimes.
Board Sole Authority to Commute Death Sentences Legal fact
The Board is the only entity in Georgia with the constitutional authority to commute a death sentence. The Governor does not have this authority in Georgia. Board Members may commute a death sentence to life with or without the possibility of parole…
Parole Board Constitutional Appointment Terms Legal fact
The Georgia Constitution provides that Parole Board Members are to be appointed by the Governor to seven year staggered terms, subject to confirmation by the State Senate.
Parole Board Established in 1943 Legal fact
In 1943, the Board was established through a constitutional amendment and consisted of three members. In August of 1943, Georgia voters ratified, by a ratio of four and a half to one, a landmark amendment to the State Constitution establishing the S…
Parole Board Expanded to Five Members in 1973 Legal fact
In 1973, as the prison population rose to 9,000, the Constitution was amended to increase the Board to five members. Today, as the inmate population exceeds 50,000, the Board still consists of five voting members.
Georgia Prison Population Exceeds 50,000 Statistic
Today, as the inmate population exceeds 50,000, the Board still consists of five voting members.
50,000 inmates
Georgia Prison Population in 1973 Statistic
In 1973, the prison population rose to 9,000.
9,000 inmates
Parole Came to Georgia in 1908 Legal fact
Parole came to Georgia in 1908 when the General Assembly voted to give the Prison Commission authority to implement a system of 'parole or conditional pardons.' Parole could be granted upon the approval of the full Commission and the Governor.
1938 Prison Commission Expanded Powers Legal fact
In 1938, the Commission was given broader powers to grant paroles without the approval of the Governor and without limitation on its authority, 'save the welfare of the State.'
1943 Legislation Creating State Board of Pardons and Paroles Legal fact
The General Assembly enacted legislation, and signed it into law in February 1943, creating the State Board of Pardons and Paroles as an independent agency to administer executive clemency.
Life Sentence Parole Eligibility: Pre-1995 Seven Deadly Sins Legal fact
If a crime considered to be a 'seven deadly sin' was committed prior to 1995, the offender is eligible for parole after seven years.
Life Sentence Parole Eligibility: 1995 Seven Deadly Sins Legal fact
In 1995, offenders committing serious violent felonies became eligible for parole after serving fourteen years.
Life Sentence Parole Eligibility: Post-July 2006 Seven Deadly Sins Legal fact
If the crime is committed after July 1, 2006, the offender is eligible for parole after serving thirty years.
Life Sentence Reconsideration Policy Policy
If parole is denied to an inmate serving life, the Board, by policy, will reconsider the case again at least once every eight years. The duration between considerations is a decision made by the Board.
Expedited Parole Reviews for Life Sentences Policy
Inmates serving life who have been denied parole and have a scheduled reconsideration date may receive expedited parole reviews if the Board receives new information that warrants an earlier review.
Work Release Precondition for Life Sentence Parole Policy
A parole eligible inmate serving a life sentence who receives a 'grant' parole decision may be required to complete a Department of Corrections' work release program as a precondition to parole.
Three Board Members Required for Parole Decision Policy
Three of the five board members (a majority) must agree on a decision.
Tentative Parole Month Definition Policy
A Tentative Parole Month (TPM) is set when three of the five board members agree on a specific amount of time that the offender should serve before being granted parole. The Tentative Parole Month or 'grant' can be rescinded at any time. The TPM is …
Final Review Process for TPM Policy
As the Tentative Parole Month (TPM) approaches, the hearing examiner will conduct a final review of the offender's case file. The final review determines if there is any reason a release date should not be set. Parole could be delayed or denied as a…
Secondary Solicitation of Information Policy Policy
As part of the Board's effort to ensure quality parole decisions, an additional notification to district attorneys and judges was implemented by the Board in June of FY16. This 'Secondary Solicitation of Information' is sent to the prosecuting distr…
Serious Violent Felony Notification Policy Policy
As a result of legislation enacted during the 2017 session, the Parole Board notifies the district attorney if an offender convicted of a serious violent felony is being considered for parole release. This notification is made at a minimum of 90-day…
72-Hour Statutory Notification Legal fact
Judges, district attorneys, sheriffs (of the county of residence prior to arrest) and registered victims also receive a 72-hour statutory notification that the offender is about to be paroled. The Board may receive information about the case during …
Probation Supervision Conditions Adopted by Board Legal fact
In 2017, the state legislature enacted into law a provision that any probation supervision conditions imposed by the sentencing court be adopted by the Board for any offender released on parole who has probation (split sentence) to serve following i…
Victim Notification Requirement Legal fact
Registered victims of a crime are given notification at the time the Board is considering a parole release, allowing for a period of time for the victim to send the Board information about the case. (O.C.G.A. § 17-17-13)
Pardon Does Not Expunge Criminal Record Legal fact
A pardon does not expunge, remove or erase crimes from a person's criminal record. A pardon is an order of official forgiveness and may be granted to individuals who have maintained a good reputation in their community and have remained crime free f…
Sex Offender Pardon Application Requirements Policy
Applicants seeking a pardon for offenses requiring registration on Georgia's Sex Offender Registry must be crime free for ten years following the completion of all sentences, as opposed to five years for all other conviction types. These applicants …
Pardon Notification Legislation 2015 Legal fact
Legislation in 2015 created a notification process informing registered victims and prosecutors, in specific cases, when an offender is seeking a pardon. This allows victims and prosecutors the opportunity to send the Board information about the cas…
Parole Board Warrant Authority Legal fact
State law authorizes the Parole Board Members to issue warrants for the arrest of alleged parole violators.
Automatic Revocation Conditions Legal fact
Revocation can occur during a Parole Revocation Hearing, when the offender signs a waiver to a revocation hearing, or automatic revocation if the conditions exist according to O.C.G.A. § 42-9-51.
Intermediate Sanctions Purpose Policy
The purpose of intermediate sanctions is to bring the offenders who are not a threat to public safety back into compliance with their parole conditions. The appropriate recommendations and enforcement of intermediate sanctions, such as treatment ref…
Parole Revocation Hearings Conducted via Video Conferencing Policy
Parole Revocation Hearings are conducted from the Board's central office in Atlanta via video conferencing or in person at the Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison in Jackson. For video conference hearings, the offender, the officer of recor…
District Operations Managers POST Certification Policy
District Operations Managers are P.O.S.T. certified officers. They are required to annually complete 20 hours of P.O.S.T. training to include weapons requalification.
Sworn Staff Training Requirements Policy
Sworn staff must complete a minimum of 20 hours annually which includes mandatory firearms requalification and use of deadly force. Beginning January 1, 2017, Board sworn staff must participate in de-escalation and community policing training.
Non-Sworn Staff Training Requirements Policy
Non-sworn staff must complete a minimum of eight hours of training annually. Both sworn and non-sworn staff must complete unlawful harassment and professionalism & ethics training each year as a part of their training hours and any other training as…
Victim Offender Dialogue Program Description Policy
The Georgia Office of Victim Services' (OVS) Victim Offender Dialogue (VOD) program provides an opportunity for victims of violent crimes to have a structured, safe, direct, one-on-one meeting with the offender who committed the crime. The program a…
Victim Support Partners Program Policy
The Georgia Office of Victim Services has initiated a program whereas crime victims partner with the office to lend their support to other victims of crime. This new statewide network of dedicated victim volunteers was established to assist, guide a…
Victim Information Program Description Policy
V.I.P. is a 24-hour automated information system providing victims of crime and/or their families, with access to information about their offender. By completing a victim impact statement or crime victim notification form, victims can be registered …
No Turning Back Recovery Program Description Policy
The No Turning Back Recovery Program located at the Washington Parole Detention Center is an intensive addiction treatment program for parolees who are both higher risk and higher need offenders who were not successful in community-based treatment a…
Clemency Online Navigation System Description Policy
The process of preparing a case for consideration by the Board is completed electronically in CONS (Clemency Online Navigation System). CONS has proven to be more effective and efficient than the prior paper based process. CONS allows Board Members …
Life-Sentenced Inmate Cases Submitted Electronically Policy
During FY16, the agency completed the process of submitting life-sentenced inmate cases to the Board electronically. By eliminating paper files on these cases and submitting them electronically, the Clemency Division's process is more efficient. Now…
Parole Investigators Staffing Statistic
Fifty-five parole investigators work in the Clemency Division. Fifty parole investigators are assigned to the field and predominantly complete post sentence investigations and profiles for all offenders sentenced by Georgia courts. Five parole inves…
55 investigators
Pardon Investigation Face-to-Face Interviews Policy
In 2015, the Parole Board made changes to the investigation procedures for a pardon applicant requesting restoration of firearm rights and for investigations necessary for inmates serving a life sentence. Both types of investigations require face-to…
Parole Board Members Conduct Monthly Board Meetings Policy
The Board conducts monthly Board Meetings at which policy decisions are made. Offender cases are not discussed and parole decisions are not made at the monthly Board Meetings.
Parole Consideration Hearings Not Held Policy
Parole consideration hearings are not held; however, each offender entering the Georgia prison system is interviewed by Board personnel. The Board also actively solicits input and accepts pleas for and protests against executive clemency throughout …
Eligible Inmates Automatically Considered for Parole Policy
Eligible inmates are automatically considered for parole.
No Inmate Entitled to Parole in Georgia Legal fact
In Georgia, no inmate is entitled to parole, however by law, most are eligible for consideration and therefore must be considered by the Parole Board.
Parole Board Sole Authority for Executive Clemency Legal fact
The Parole Board holds the sole constitutional authority to grant executive clemency to a condemned inmate.
Board Members Full-Time State Employees Finding
Board Members are full-time state employees from various professions including criminal justice and private business.
Governor Deal Re-appointed Jacqueline Bunn Case detail
Governor Nathan Deal re-appointed Parole Board Member Jacqueline Bunn to a full seven year term effective January 1, 2017. Bunn was appointed to the Board originally, effective July 1, 2016, to complete an unexpired term of a retiring Board Member.
Governor Deal GED Graduation Ceremony Parole Grants Case detail
In late June of 2017, Governor Nathan Deal gave remarks at a Department of Corrections' GED graduation ceremony which included the Parole Board Members notifying three inmates who had completed their GED that they were being granted parole. The cere…
DOC Surpassed 2,000 GED Completions in FY17 Statistic
The ceremony at Lee Arrendale State Prison marked the Department of Corrections' milestone of surpassing 2,000 GED completions for the fiscal year.
2,000 GED completions
Parole Board Family Day Participation Case detail
The Board's clemency staff participated in the Department of Corrections' Family Day in April of 2017. This participation by the Parole Board afforded more than 500 family members and friends of state inmates the opportunity to learn what they may d…
Parole Releases Announced at Graduation Ceremonies Finding
To draw attention and comparison to the absolute necessity for inmates to complete programming, the Board announced several parole releases at inmate program graduation ceremonies.
Victims Visitors' Day Program Began in 2006 Finding
The Victims Visitors' Day program began in 2006. Through FY17, 27 separate events have been conducted, 19 different communities have hosted, and the Parole Board has met with more than 3,300 victims.
Victims Visitors' Day Communities Hosted Statistic
Through FY17, 19 different communities have hosted Victims Visitors' Day events.
19 communities
Parole Board Meetings with Defense Attorneys and Public Defenders Finding
Meetings with criminal defense attorneys and public defenders from across the state were conducted on several occasions allowing for their input into the parole process, providing the Board an additional perspective when making informed data driven …
Parole Board Criminal Justice Reform Council Participation Finding
During the 2017 legislative session, the Parole Board actively participated in the Criminal Justice Reform Council's meetings as a way to engage stakeholders in the parole process.
Parole Board Stakeholder Engagement Finding
Board Members, executive staff and senior leadership conducted informative meetings and events with criminal defense lawyers, district attorneys, public defenders, judges, local/county/state and federal law enforcement agencies, various human rights…
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Mission Quote
The mission of the Parole Board embodies our role in the criminal justice system as we ensure public safety through informed decision-making.
Executive Director Quote on Parole Authority Goal Quote
Our goal is simple; to be the number one parole authority in the world, a goal this agency is well on its way to achieving.
Executive Director Quote on Clemency Decision Making Process Quote
As a result, we are confident our clemency decision making process is among the best in the nation.
Executive Director Quote on Public Safety Path Quote
This is the true path to public safety and what the Board strives to achieve each day.
Chairman Quote on Georgia's Greatest Asset Quote
Georgia's greatest asset is its people and we must never allow any person to become merely a number.
Chairman Quote on Balancing Victim and Offender Restoration Quote
Restoring both the victim and offender is important. It's a balancing act between the two. Striking that balance of compassionate mercy for the victims while seeking justice and appropriate mercy for the offender is truly a challenge.
Chairman Quote on Stakeholder Engagement Quote
Whether it is prosecutors, defense lawyers, judges, law enforcement or victims, we continue to invite all into the parole process. Today, the Board is sending more notifications than ever before in order to ensure our stakeholders are aware of pendi…
Parole Board Mission Statement Policy
To serve the citizens of Georgia by exercising the constitutional authority of executive clemency through informed decision-making, thereby ensuring public safety, protecting victims' rights, and providing offenders with opportunities for positive c…
Parole Board Vision Statement Policy
To be the nation's leading paroling authority by: Making informed clemency decisions; Preparing offenders for positive change through the imposition of practical and constructive release conditions; Protecting the public by holding accountable those…
Parole Board Values Policy
We value Ethics, Integrity, Equity and Innovation.
Parole Board 4E's Framework Policy
The Agency is guided by the 4E's: Engaging Stakeholders, Educating the Community, Eliciting Active Participation, Enhancing Operations.
Parole Board Members Serve on Board of Community Supervision Finding
James W. Mills and Braxton T. Cotton both serve on the Board of Community Supervision. The board has regulatory oversight of the Department of Community Supervision which is responsible for the supervision of felony offenders on probation and parole…
Enhancements Under Terry Barnard's Leadership Finding
Under Terry Barnard's leadership as chairman, enhancements to the parole consideration process were made to include increased board notifications to solicit additional case information, increased access to the Board and the decision making process f…
Brian Owens Appointed to Board Case detail
Brian Owens was appointed to the Board on February 1, 2015, by Governor Nathan Deal. The former Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Corrections began his career as a parole officer in 1993.
Braxton Cotton Appointed to Board Case detail
Braxton T. Cotton was appointed to the Board in November of 2013 by Governor Nathan Deal.
James Mills Appointed to Board Case detail
James W. Mills was appointed to the Board in November of 2011 by Governor Nathan Deal.
Terry Barnard Appointed to Board Case detail
Terry E. Barnard of McIntosh County was appointed to the Board in May 2010 by Governor Perdue and reappointed December 31, 2010.
Christopher Barnett Appointed Executive Director Case detail
Executive Director Christopher Barnett was appointed to the position in August of 2015 after serving as Interim Director and guiding the Board through a significant reorganization as parole supervision transitioned to the new Department of Community…
Rita Rocker Appointed Deputy Executive Director Case detail
Rita Rocker was appointed Deputy Executive Director effective June 1, 2015.
Braxton Cotton Youngest African American Agency Director Case detail
At the age of 30, Mr. Cotton became the youngest African American agency director in Georgia history when he was appointed Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC).
Brian Owens Sworn in as DOC Commissioner Case detail
On January 8, 2009, Mr. Owens was sworn in as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Corrections by Governor Perdue. He was reappointed as Commissioner by Governor Deal on January 18, 2011.
Jacqueline Bunn Appointed CJCC Executive Director Case detail
In July of 2013, Ms. Bunn was appointed by Governor Deal to serve as the Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC).
Braxton Cotton Appointed CJCC Executive Director Case detail
In June 2012, Governor Deal appointed Mr. Cotton to serve as Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC).
Braxton Cotton Appointed Governor's Office of Transition, Support and Reentry Case detail
In June 2013, Governor Deal appointed Mr. Cotton as the Executive Director of the newly created Governor's Office of Transition, Support and Reentry. Mr. Cotton established this agency with the primary mission to coordinate all state resources that …
HB310 Created Department of Community Supervision Legal fact
During FY 2015, HB310 was passed creating the Department of Community Supervision (DCS).
400+ Parole Officers Remained on Parole Payroll in FY16 Statistic
400+ Parole Officers remained on the Parole payroll throughout FY16, although operationally transferred to DCS.
400 parole officers
Federal Funds Removed from Budget in FY17 Finding
In FY17, all appropriated Federal Funds were removed from the budget except bank fee funds.
No Bond Funds for Motor Vehicle Purchases in FY17 Finding
The agency did not receive any bond funds for motor vehicle purchases in FY17, but several new vehicles were leased.
Supervision Fees Moved to DCS Finding
The agency is no longer tasked with collecting supervision fees as this function has been moved to the Department of Community Supervision.
Parole Board Website Finding
The Parole Board's website is located at www.pap.georgia.gov.
Parole Board Contact Information Finding
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles is located at 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive S.E., Suite 458, East Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334-4909. Phone: 404.657.9450.
Parole Board Members in FY17 Finding
The FY17 Parole Board consisted of James W. Mills (Chairman), Braxton T. Cotton (Vice Chairman), Terry E. Barnard (Member), Brian Owens (Member), and Jacqueline Bunn, Esq. (Member).
Executive Leadership in FY17 Finding
The FY17 executive leadership included Christopher L. Barnett (Executive Director), Rita Rocker (Deputy Executive Director), James 'Bubba' Williams (Clemency Director), Shalandra D. Robertson (Victims Services Director), and Rick Jacobs (Field Servi…
District Operations Managers Assigned to Judicial Districts Finding
District Operations Managers are assigned to the ten (10) Judicial Districts and are an integral link between the Board and the Department of Community Supervision (DCS) as it relates to parole violators.
ICAOS Membership Finding
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles, in FY17, was a member of the Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision (ICAOS). ICAOS is comprised of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands.
Georgia Office of Victim Services Supported by Three Agencies Finding
The Georgia Office of Victim Services is supported by three state agencies which are the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, the Department of Corrections and the Department of Community Supervision.
Victim Offender Dialogue Initiated by Victim Only Policy
VOD can only be initiated by the victim and the offender must voluntarily agree to participate and must acknowledge his/her role in the crime.
Victim Services Additional Functions Policy
Additional Services of the Georgia Office of Victim Services include: Victim Impact Statements and Protest Letters are submitted to the Parole Board for review; Notification of parole consideration, release, and supervision of offenders; Advocacy fo…
Parole Certificates Issued in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, 6,577 parole certificates were issued.
6,577 certificates
Out-of-State Parole Orders in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 297 out-of-state parole orders.
297 orders
Conditional Transfers in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 766 conditional transfers.
766 transfers
Out-of-State Conditional Transfers in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 183 out-of-state conditional transfers.
183 transfers
Supervised Reprieves in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 1,234 supervised reprieves.
1,234 reprieves
Out-of-State Supervised Reprieves in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 17 out-of-state supervised reprieves.
17 reprieves
Commutations in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 1,215 commutations.
1,215 commutations
Medical Reprieves in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 32 medical reprieves.
32 reprieves
Out-of-State ICE Orders in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 147 out-of-state ICE orders.
147 orders
Total Discharges from Parole in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 8,770 total discharges from parole.
8,770 discharges
Initial Guidelines Decisions in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 8,581 initial guidelines decisions.
8,581 decisions
Other Guidelines Decisions in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 2,143 other guidelines decisions.
2,143 decisions
Total Guidelines Decisions in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 10,724 total guidelines decisions.
10,724 decisions
Restoration of Rights Granted in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, 129 restorations of rights were granted.
129 restorations
Pardon Grants in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 590 pardon grants.
590 pardons
Total Pardons and Restorations Granted in FY17 Statistic
In FY17, there were 719 total pardons and restorations granted.
719 grants
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System Not Used for Life Sentences Policy
Unlike other offenders, the Board's guidelines are not used and a TPM is not the result of the Board's decision for inmates serving a life sentence. The Board's decision is either to grant or deny parole.
Parole Board Members May Deviate from Guidelines Policy
The members may agree with the time-to-serve recommendation provided by the Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System or they may deviate from the recommendation by increasing or decreasing the number of months to be served before parole is granted. …
Parole File Public Documents Legal fact
Many documents in the parole file on the offender are public. They may include (if applicable to the offender) but are not limited to: sentencing documents, notifications to the offender regarding the Board's decision, notice of consideration for pa…
Parole File Non-Public Documents Legal fact
Documents that are not public and protected by Georgia law from public disclosure include but are not limited to: victim correspondence, the offender's medical information, GCIC/NCIC reports, the hearing examiner's executive summary of the offender'…
Information Considered in Parole Decisions Policy
Information that may be in the parole file that the Board Members can consider when determining if someone receives parole includes: aggravating circumstances, victim impact statements, prosecutor/judicial statements, legal investigations including …
Parole Consideration Process Steps Policy
After the agency receives an offender's sentencing information electronically from the Department of Corrections, parole investigators collect details of conviction offenses, interview inmates for personal history statements and complete post senten…
Parole Violations Definition Policy
Violations of parole consist of new criminal charges (felony and misdemeanor) and technical violations related to failing to follow the conditions of their parole.
Parole Violation Process Policy
When a violation occurs, the supervising officer generates a report detailing the delinquent behavior. Upon receipt of the report, the District Operations Manager conducts a thorough case investigation to determine what action the Board should take …
Parole Revocation Hearing Process Policy
Upon the establishment of probable cause, Parole Revocation Hearings are held to address violations of parole. Each hearing is presided over by an individual Board Member who hears all of the evidence in the case and makes a recommendation to the fu…
Parole Board Warrant Process Policy
Upon notification that an offender has violated the conditions of release, the District Operations Manager reviews the violations and the case history to determine if a Board Warrant should be issued to immediately place the offender into custody. I…
Parole Certificates Forwarded to Clerks of Court Policy
If released on parole, parole certificates are forwarded to the clerks of court for each docket the inmate is paroled on.
Inmate TPM Lookup Available Online Policy
An inmate's TPM status is available on the agency's website. The Inmate TPM Lookup (Offender/Inmate Parole Status) link is located on the home page at www.pap.georgia.gov.
Registered Victims Automated Status Update System Policy
Registered crime victims may also use an automated system to call and receive an offender status update. (Review V.I.P. at https://pap.georgia.gov/victim-information-program-vip)
Prosecutors Routinely Provide Information to Board Finding
The state's prosecutors routinely provide information to the Board regarding cases. During the post-sentence investigation conducted by parole investigators, the judge and the district attorney have the opportunity to provide information and his/her…
Pardon Application Requirements Policy
The current application requires applicants to provide additional information including their version of criminal offenses, justification for why they should be considered for a pardon, including a description of how they have contributed to their c…
Pardon Process Continuously Reviewed Finding
The pardon process is continuously reviewed in order to ensure informed decisions are the result.
Pardon Investigation Process Description Policy
The Parole Board's pardon application and decision making process includes thorough pardon investigations and provides the most comprehensive information available to assist the Board in making quality pardon decisions.
Parole Investigators Conduct Post Sentence Investigations Policy
Parole investigators conduct and complete investigations collecting information about the offender's conviction offenses. The process includes interviewing inmates for personal history statements and completing post sentence investigations.
Field Services Division Mission Policy
The mission of the Field Services Division is to effectively and efficiently manage the process related to violations of parole by offenders. The division ensures that violations of parole conditions by offenders are quickly addressed. If necessary,…
Field Services Division Units Finding
The Field Services Division is comprised of four units: District Operations Manager Unit; Scanning and Imaging Unit; GCIC Entry Unit; and the Interstate Compact Unit.
Interstate Compact Unit Responsibilities Policy
In FY17, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles' Interstate Compact Unit was responsible for processing the transfer of all Georgia inmates paroling to an out-of-state residence. In addition, the unit responded to violations, handled extraditions an…
ICE Rapid REPAT Program Policy
Via the ICE Rapid REPAT (Removal of Eligible Parolees Accepted for Transfer) Program, 147 foreign national offenders were released to ICE for deportation.
Cost Avoidance Calculation Methodology Methodology note
The fiscal year cost avoidance is calculated based on the cost per day to incarcerate a state inmate in Georgia compared to the community supervision cost per day. The Department of Corrections cost per day submitted for FY17 is $53.76. The Departme…
Cost Estimates Submitted at Time of Annual Report Methodology note
Note: costs are submitted as estimated at the time of each annual report cycle.
National Parole Completion Rate Source Methodology note
National parole completion rate data source is the Bureau of Justice Statistics.
Parole Decision Guidelines Research Methodology Methodology note
The updates involved the research and tracking of more than 26,000 Georgia clemency release cases for years, in order to accurately determine which groups of offenders were more likely to commit a new felony offense(s) within three years of release.
Parole Decision Guidelines Best Practices Finding
Best practices in parole decision-making support routine reviews and updates to the guidelines.
Parole Board Engaged Offenders and Community for Reentry Finding
In FY17, the Parole Board engaged both the offender and the community in order to ensure success after parole. Community and family support is essential for the offender to be successful while on parole. Information obtained in these engagements ena…
Parole Staff Visited Prisons and Attended Graduations Finding
Offenders were also engaged throughout the fiscal year as parole staff visited prisons and attended inmate graduations celebrating completions of necessary reentry programming. In facilities across the state, parole staff interviewed inmates and dis…
Parole Board Members Met with Crime Victims for Over a Decade Finding
In FY17, the Parole Board Members continued more than a decade of scheduling meetings with crime victims. Partnering with local victim-witness assistance offices and the Georgia Office of Victim Services, the Board Members visited two Georgia commun…
Milledgeville Victims Visitors' Day Details Case detail
In October of 2016, the Board conducted one of the largest ever Victims Visitors' Days in Milledgeville, Georgia. More than 200 victims and family members attended. Confidential meetings with one of the five voting Parole Board Members offered victi…
Dahlonega Victims Visitors' Day Details Case detail
The event was repeated in April of 2017 in Dahlonega, Georgia, as more than 100 victims and family members accepted the Board's invitation to attend a Victims Visitors' Day. During these events, dating back to 2006, the State Board of Pardons and Pa…
Victims Visitors' Day Staff Relocation Policy
During these events, dating back to 2006, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles temporarily relocates much of its staff in order that crime victims receive necessary assistance.
Victims Visitors' Day Registration of Unregistered Victims Policy
The Victims Visitors' Day provides new opportunities to register previously unregistered victims of crime with the Georgia Office of Victim Services. Victims meet with the staff and are informed of the services and resources available to them throug…
Milledgeville Victims Visitors' Day Partnership Case detail
The Milledgeville event was held in conjunction with the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit Victim-Witness Assistance Program. Central Georgia Technical College in Milledgeville was the location.
Dahlonega Victims Visitors' Day Partnership Case detail
The Dahlonega event was a partnership with the Enotah Judicial Circuit Victim-Witness Assistance Program. The Victims Visitors' Day was conducted at the Lumpkin County Courthouse.
Victim Offender Dialogue Contact Information Finding
Victims interested in the Victim Offender Dialogue program may contact the Georgia Office of Victim Services at 404-651-6668.
V.I.P. Registration Forms Available Online Finding
The V.I.P. registration forms are available online at www.pap.georgia.gov or by calling 404-651-6668.
V.I.P. Phone Number Finding
The V.I.P. system phone number is 800-593-9474.
Parole Decision Guidelines Information Available Online Finding
More information regarding the Board's application of the current Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System can be found at www.pap.georgia.gov/parole-consideration-eligibility.
Parole Process Information Available Online Finding
For more information on parole eligibility and the Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System visit: www.pap.georgia.gov.
Parole Consideration Information Available Online Finding
For more information: https://pap.georgia.gov/parole-consideration
Serious Violent Felony Notification Offenses List Finding
The offenses included in this notification process can be found at https://pap.georgia.gov/parole-process-georgia-0.
Seven Deadly Sins Offenses Legal fact
The offenses referred to as the 'seven deadly sins' are murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, aggravated child molestation, aggravated sodomy, and aggravated sexual battery. (O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.1.)
Serious Violent Felony Notification 90-Day Requirement Legal fact
The new notification is sent a minimum of 90-days in advance of a clemency release. This additional notification gives prosecutors an additional opportunity to convey to the Board any information necessary before the offender is released. This notif…
Offender Opportunity to Submit Information Legal fact
The Board shall also give the offender being considered an opportunity to submit information. (O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.1.) & (O.C.G.A. § 42-9-43(c) (1))
Parole Eligibility Date Legal References Legal fact
Parole Eligibility Date is governed by OCGA 42.9.45(b) and 42.9.46(⅓).
Pending Release Notification Legal References Legal fact
Pending Release notification is governed by OCGA 42.9.41 and OCGA 42.9.44(a).
Parole Process Pre-Decision Steps Policy
The parole process pre-decision steps are: 1) Conviction - Sentence computed by DOC, Offender Administration Sent to the Board; 2) Case 'Initialized' - Parole Eligibility Date (PED) Set and Legal Investigations Ordered; 3) Investigations - Parole In…
Parole Process Post-Decision Steps Policy
The parole process post-decision steps are: 8) Tentative Parole Month Established; 9) Inmate Notified - First Per Board Rules; 10) 90-Day Notification - To DA if a 'Serious Violent Felony' OCGA 17-10-6.1; 11) Victims Notified - Office of Victim Serv…
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Data Driven Decisions Quote
Because our decisions are data driven, we understand that having all available information results in the most informed and best possible parole decision.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Leadership Quote
Leadership demands never becoming content with where we are; we can always improve and learn better ways to ensure safe communities and a brighter future.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Victim Offender Dialogue Quote
Another important service offered in FY17, was the Victim Offender Dialogue program. This program allows the victim to control a direct meeting with the offender to work toward forgiveness and restoration. We want victims to be restored and become c…
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Pardon Quote
The granting of a pardon for example does not remove or erase a person's criminal history. However it can assist a deserving former offender the opportunity to move forward in life. Today's pardon application is more comprehensive than ever before.
Executive Director Quote on Swift Action for Violations Quote
If an individual fails to take advantage of the opportunity presented to them by the Board and violates conditions of their release, the Board takes swift action to remove that individual from the community and reduce any threat to our public safety.
Executive Director Quote on Earning Way Out Quote
However, if an individual has shown a true commitment to reentry, rehabilitation, and becomes a positive force in their community, the Department of Community Supervision will submit the individual's case to the Board for possible commutation of the…
Executive Director Quote on Stakeholder Engagement Quote
By striving to include the active participation of all stakeholders in the clemency consideration process, our agency is ensuring the most accurate depiction of a case is being presented to the Board for consideration. It takes all of us, openly wor…
Executive Director Quote on Constitutional Role Quote
The Board's constitutional role in our criminal justice system in Georgia is critical and requires operations to be ever evolving.
Executive Director Quote on Updated Guidelines Quote
This update ensures the Board has the most relevant up-to-date scientific, research based data regarding Georgia offenders, which is a critical factor in making the best possible clemency decisions.
Georgia Constitution Three Branches of Government Legal fact
Georgia's constitution provides for three branches of government to serve as checks and balances on the power of government over the offender. The legislative branch sets the minimum and maximum range of the prison sentence, the judicial branch sent…
Clemency Encompasses Parole Decision Making Process Legal fact
In Georgia, clemency encompasses the parole decision making process. Clemency also pertains to the granting or denying of pardons and restoration of rights by the Parole Board.
Parole Board Manages Finite Prison Beds Finding
As a result of data driven decisions, Georgia's scientific parole consideration process keeps the public safe and assists the Department of Corrections in keeping the finite number of prison beds dedicated for the most serious offenders.
Annual Cost Avoidance Over $377 Million Statistic
The annual cost avoidance to the state, due to offenders being under parole supervision as opposed to housing them in prison, was more than $377 million for FY17.
$377.0M
Parole Board Members Independently Reach Decisions Policy
Board Members independently reach their decisions after reviewing a comprehensive electronic case file on the eligible offender. The file generally includes investigative reports, reports from the Department of Corrections, the offender's criminal h…
CONS Electronic Case File Establishment Policy
The electronic case file is established in CONS after the sentence package is electronically received from the Department of Corrections. Electronic notifications trigger actions moving the case toward a Board decision. CONS initializes notification…
Parole Board Eliminated Paper Files Finding
The Parole Board has eliminated the production of paper files and continues the process of imaging the last of the existing paper files.
All Parole Eligible Inmate Cases Voted Electronically Finding
Now all parole eligible inmate cases in Georgia may be voted electronically by the Board.
CONS Improved Business Processes Finding
CONS has significantly improved the agency's business processes.
Parole Board Actively Worked to Educate Stakeholders Finding
The agency actively worked to educate all stakeholders about the parole process and encouraged their participation in the process. As a result, additional enhancements were made to our operations in FY17.
Parole Board Engaged Criminal Justice Partners Finding
The Parole Board Members and staff continued to engage criminal justice partners and community stakeholders in Georgia during Fiscal Year 2017. This engagement assisted in the achievement of the best possible parole outcomes and ensured public safet…
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Victim Meetings Quote
By personally meeting with victims of crime, we understand their concerns, the impact of the crime, and we are able to help the victim understand the parole process. During the fiscal year, the Board Members and clemency staff made visits to several…
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Stakeholder Collaboration Quote
During FY17, we continued meeting with stakeholders and criminal justice partners to work together in enhancing the parole decision making process.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Service Responsibility Quote
As Chairman, it is a great honor to serve, and that service carries great responsibility to help us continue to move forward.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Honor and Responsibility Quote
It is a great honor and great responsibility to serve on the State Board of Pardons and Paroles. Difficult life changing decisions are made each day.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Criminal Justice Reform Quote
The implementation of Governor Deal's Criminal Justice Reform is assisting the Board in successfully completing the task of fulfilling our mission and our public safety role in Georgia's criminal justice system.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Guidelines Implementation Quote
In FY17, the Board implemented our updated Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System; an essential part of ensuring scientific, data driven, informed decision making. This process improvement is providing the Board Members with additional data to ass…
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Decision Making Process Quote
Decisions are made only after careful and thorough consideration of the guidelines recommendation, if applicable, and of the information in the comprehensive parole case file, which includes victim information, circumstances of crimes and much more.…
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Clemency Importance Quote
Clemency, in its various forms, is a very important part of the criminal justice process.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on State Law Parole Consideration Quote
State law requires that parole eligible offenders be considered for release.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Offender as Part of Equation Quote
The offender is only one part of the equation.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Transparency Quote
Our efforts are made to ensure the parole decision making process is understood and as transparent as possible.
Parole Board Chairman Quote on Secondary Solicitations Quote
In FY17, after adding a new notification to our process, the Board made 3,272 secondary solicitations/notifications to the state's district attorneys to ensure the Board has all available information regarding a case.
Executive Director Quote on Mission Quote
As Executive Director of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, it is my great privilege and honor to lead the day-to-day operations of this agency and to bring additional insight into our efforts and results through this annual report.
Executive Director Quote on Primary Mission Quote
In Fiscal Year (FY) 17, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles remained focused on the agency's primary mission of keeping Georgia safe.
Executive Director Quote on Mission Statement Quote
Mission Statement: To serve the citizens of Georgia by exercising the constitutional authority of executive clemency through informed decision making, thereby ensuring public safety, protecting victims' rights and providing offenders with opportunit…
Executive Director Quote on Operations Ensuring Compliance Quote
Our operations also ensure those in the community due to a clemency action abide by the conditions imposed by the Board and the expectations of the communities in which they live.
Executive Director Quote on DCS Partnership Quote
The Department of Community Supervision is our partner in ensuring public safety as their officers supervise individuals in the community and inform the Board of those who are exceeding expectations or falling short on compliance.
Executive Director Quote on Two Year Guidelines Project Quote
Recently, the Board completed a two year project updating its Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System. The updates involved the research and tracking of more than 26,000 Georgia clemency release cases for years, in order to accurately determine whi…
Executive Director Quote on Agency Goal Quote
Our goal is simple; to be the number one parole authority in the world, a goal this agency is well on its way to achieving.
Executive Director Quote on Stakeholder Engagement Enhancement Quote
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles has enhanced our engagement of all stakeholders in the clemency consideration process, ensuring all pertinent information regarding cases under consideration by the Board is captured, retained and utilized by t…
Executive Director Quote on Meetings with Stakeholders Quote
Board Members, executive staff and senior leadership conducted informative meetings and events with criminal defense lawyers, district attorneys, public defenders, judges, local/county/state and federal law enforcement agencies, various human rights…
Executive Director Quote on Public Safety Enhancement Quote
It takes all of us, openly working together, to ensure the Board makes the best possible decision and public safety is enhanced for all Georgians.
Executive Director Quote on Constitutional Role Critical Quote
The Board's constitutional role in our criminal justice system in Georgia is critical and requires operations to be ever evolving.
Executive Director Quote on Confidence in Decision Making Quote
As a result, we are confident our clemency decision making process is among the best in the nation.
Executive Director Quote on Swift Action Quote
If an individual fails to take advantage of the opportunity presented to them by the Board and violates conditions of their release, the Board takes swift action to remove that individual from the community and reduce any threat to our public safety.
Executive Director Quote on Earning Way Out Quote
However, if an individual has shown a true commitment to reentry, rehabilitation, and becomes a positive force in their community, the Department of Community Supervision will submit the individual's case to the Board for possible commutation of the…
Executive Director Quote on Agency Mission Quote
As Executive Director of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, it is my great privilege and honor to lead the day-to-day operations of this agency and to bring additional insight into our efforts and results through this annual report.
Executive Director Quote on Primary Mission Quote
In Fiscal Year (FY) 17, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles remained focused on the agency's primary mission of keeping Georgia safe.
Executive Director Quote on Mission Statement Quote
Mission Statement: To serve the citizens of Georgia by exercising the constitutional authority of executive clemency through informed decision making, thereby ensuring public safety, protecting victims' rights and providing offenders with opportunit…
Executive Director Quote on Operations Ensuring Compliance Quote
Our operations also ensure those in the community due to a clemency action abide by the conditions imposed by the Board and the expectations of the communities in which they live.
Executive Director Quote on DCS Partnership Quote
The Department of Community Supervision is our partner in ensuring public safety as their officers supervise individuals in the community and inform the Board of those who are exceeding expectations or falling short on compliance.
Executive Director Quote on Two Year Guidelines Project Quote
Recently, the Board completed a two year project updating its Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System. The updates involved the research and tracking of more than 26,000 Georgia clemency release cases for years, in order to accurately determine whi…
Executive Director Quote on Agency Goal Quote
Our goal is simple; to be the number one parole authority in the world, a goal this agency is well on its way to achieving.
Executive Director Quote on Stakeholder Engagement Enhancement Quote
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles has enhanced our engagement of all stakeholders in the clemency consideration process, ensuring all pertinent information regarding cases under consideration by the Board is captured, retained and utilized by t…
Executive Director Quote on Meetings with Stakeholders Quote
Board Members, executive staff and senior leadership conducted informative meetings and events with criminal defense lawyers, district attorneys, public defenders, judges, local/county/state and federal law enforcement agencies, various human rights…
Executive Director Quote on Public Safety Enhancement Quote
It takes all of us, openly working together, to ensure the Board makes the best possible decision and public safety is enhanced for all Georgians.
Executive Director Quote on Constitutional Role Critical Quote
The Board's constitutional role in our criminal justice system in Georgia is critical and requires operations to be ever evolving.
Executive Director Quote on Confidence in Decision Making Quote
As a result, we are confident our clemency decision making process is among the best in the nation.
Executive Director Quote on Swift Action Quote
If an individual fails to take advantage of the opportunity presented to them by the Board and violates conditions of their release, the Board takes swift action to remove that individual from the community and reduce any threat to our public safety.
Executive Director Quote on Earning Way Out Quote
However, if an individual has shown a true commitment to reentry, rehabilitation, and becomes a positive force in their community, the Department of Community Supervision will submit the individual's case to the Board for possible commutation of the…
Sources
2 cited sources backing this research.
Primary
Official report
Primary
Official report
Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Applied Research Services, Inc.
[organization]
Board of Community Supervision
[organization]
Braxton T. Cotton
[person]
Brian Owens
[person]
Bureau of Justice Statistics
[organization]
Christopher L. Barnett
[person]
Clemency Online Navigation System
[program]
Criminal Justice Coordinating Council
[organization]
Criminal Justice Reform Council
[organization]
Department of Community Supervision
[organization]
Enotah Judicial Circuit Victim-Witness Assistance Program
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison
[facility]
Georgia Office of Victim Services
[organization]
Governor's Office of Transition, Support and Reentry
[organization]
HB310
[legislation]
Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision
[organization]
Jacqueline Bunn
[person]
James W. Mills
[person]
James Williams
[person]
Lee Arrendale State Prison
[facility]
Nathan Deal
[person]
No Turning Back Recovery Program
[program]
Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit Victim-Witness Assistance Program
[organization]
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System
[program]
Rick Jacobs
[person]
Rita Rocker
[person]
Sexual Offender Registration Review Board
[organization]
Shalandra D. Robertson
[person]
Sonny Perdue
[person]
State Board of Pardons and Paroles
[organization]
Terry E. Barnard
[person]
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
[organization]
Victim Information Program
[program]
Washington Parole Detention Center
[facility]
Related Topics
Research topics that draw on data from this collection.
Parole & Sentencing
Georgia's parole system functions as a powerful but opaque gatekeeper, releasing only a fraction of eligible people despite a 72% success rate and $343 million in annual cost avoidance. Meanwhile, life sentences have ballooned to one in five people in Georgia prisons, fueled by truth-in-sentencing policies and a reluctance to use release mechanisms, even as the state pours $634 million in new corrections spending into a system marked by extreme racial disparities and a near-total lack of compassionate release structures.
6,560 data points
Recidivism & Reentry
Georgia’s public narrative touts a low three-year felony reconviction rate of 25–27%, but this narrow metric masks a deeper crisis: the state releases 14,000–16,000 people annually with minimal reentry support, contributing to a national five-year rearrest rate of 76.6%. With nearly one in three incarcerated people over 50, spiraling healthcare costs, and a parole system that achieves a 72% successful completion rate, Georgia faces a stark choice between investing in evidence-based reentry or absorbing the escalating fiscal and human costs of system failure.
6,376 data points