Parole
BOPP Annual Report FY2025 — Georgia Parole Board
The Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles FY2025 Annual Report documents a fiscal year in which 5,588 offenders were released on parole, with a 73% successful parole completion rate that exceeds the national average of approximately 60%. The Board considered 20,364 inmate cases and cast 76,261 clemency votes, while the agency underwent a significant reorganization that established an independent Investigations Division and transferred Pardons and Restoration of Rights functions to the Post-Release Considerations Division. The report highlights the launch of the nation's first parole board Comfort Dog Program, extensive victim engagement through Victim Impact Sessions, and a calculated annual cost avoidance of more than $380 million from parole supervision versus incarceration.
Key Findings
The most impactful data from this research collection.
5,588
8,556 Released on Parole
Statistic$380.0M
Parole Supervision Cost Avoidance
Statistic87
Life Sentences Granted for Violent Felonies
StatisticParole Completion Exceeds National Average
FindingAll Data Points
272 verified data points extracted from primary sources.
Offenders released on parole in FY25 Statistic
In Fiscal Year 2025, through the Board's executive clemency authority, 5,588 offenders were released from prison to serve the remainder of their prison sentence on parole.
5,588 offenders vs. FY24 releases
Parole completion rate FY25 Statistic
Georgia's percentage of parolees successfully completing parole in FY25 was 73%, compared to a national average estimated at approximately 60%.
73% vs. National average
Total clemency votes cast in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, the five Board Members made a total of 76,261 votes, representing all Board decisions requiring a vote and multiple votes or decisions for each offender case during the fiscal year.
76,261 votes
Parole eligible offender cases considered in FY25 Statistic
The total number of parole eligible offender cases considered by the Board Members during the fiscal year was 20,364.
20,364 cases
FY25 parole releases increased by 145 over FY24 Statistic
During FY25, the Georgia Parole Board released 5,588 offenders from prison. This total represented 145 more parole board-initiated releases from the previous fiscal year.
145 releases
Annual cost avoidance from parole supervision FY25 Statistic
The annual estimated cost avoidance to the state, due to offenders being under parole supervision as opposed to housing them in a state prison, was more than $380 million dollars for FY25.
$380.0M vs. FY24 cost avoidance
Cost per day to incarcerate a state inmate in Georgia FY25 Statistic
The FY25 cost per day to incarcerate a state inmate in Georgia was $80.31, compared to the community supervision cost per day of $3.13.
$80.31 vs. Community supervision cost per day
Offender files initiated for parole consideration in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, there were 16,596 offender files initiated or prepared by the Pre-Release Considerations Division for parole consideration by the Board.
16,596 files
GPEDS notifications generated in FY25 Statistic
For FY25, 42,749 notifications (all types) were generated by GPEDS (Georgia Parole Evidence-based Data System).
42,749 notifications
Preconditions to parole imposed in FY25 Statistic
There were 4,781 preconditions to parole imposed by the Board on inmates during the fiscal year.
4,781 preconditions
PICs awarded to state inmates in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, the Parole Board members granted 30,710 PIC (Performance Incentive Credit) or PIC points to state inmates who had earned them by completing specific programming and work details. Each PIC point equals one month that a TPM can be changed to …
30,710 PIC points vs. FY24 PICs awarded
Second solicitation notifications sent to judges and prosecutors in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, 2,485 case notifications or second solicitations/notifications were sent to judges and prosecutors regarding offenders convicted of serious felonies.
2,485 notifications
90-day notifications sent in serious violent felony cases FY25 Statistic
In FY25, the Board sent 90-day notifications in 324 cases regarding offenders convicted of serious violent felonies under consideration for parole release.
324 cases
Life-sentenced inmates granted/released for serious violent felonies in FY25 Statistic
Lifers serving for a Serious Violent Felony - Granted/Released in FY25: 87. Total Lifers Considered for parole in FY25: 2,277.
87 inmates vs. Total lifers considered
Average time served on life sentence for serious violent felonies in FY25 Statistic
In FY 2025, the average time served on a life sentence for serious violent felonies prior to a release was 29.6 years. In 1973, life-sentenced inmates convicted of serious violent felonies served less than nine years in prison, on average, before be…
29.6 years vs. Average years served in 1973
Life sentence cases denied in FY25 Statistic
Life Sentence Cases Denied: 2,154. Life Sentence Cases Granted/released: 123 (total includes the 87 SVF life sentence cases). Total Life Sentence Case Decisions: 2,277.
2,154 cases denied vs. Life sentence cases granted/released
Parole certificates issued in FY25 Statistic
Parole Certificates: 4,037. Out-of-State Parole Orders: 294. Conditional Transfers: 710. Out-of-State Conditional Transfers: 128. Supervised Reprieves: 409. Out-of-State Supervised Reprieves: 0. Commutations: 0. Medical Reprieves: 10. Out-of-State I…
4,037 certificates
Total guidelines decisions in FY25 Statistic
Total Guidelines Decisions: 13,743. The Board considered 20,364 cases for releases or future tentative parole months: 2,277 life sentenced cases, 13,743 guideline cases, and 4,344 short sentence cases.
13,743 decisions
Short sentence cases considered in FY25 Statistic
The Board considered 4,344 short sentence cases in FY25.
4,344 cases
Final reviews completed by Critical Analysis Unit in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, 10,360 final reviews were completed, and random audits were completed to verify the accuracy of case evaluations, risk level assessments and assigned crime severity levels.
10,360 reviews
Parole population decreased in FY25 Statistic
During Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25), the population of offenders on parole under community supervision decreased from 15,105 on July 1, 2024, to 14,568 on June 30, 2025.
14,568 offenders vs. Population on July 1, 2024
Offenders discharged from parole in FY25 Statistic
The number of offenders discharged from parole was 4,729 in FY25.
4,729 offenders
Cumulative offenders under parole supervision in FY25 Statistic
The cumulative number of offenders under parole supervision during the fiscal year was 21,151.
21,151 offenders
Parole warrants issued in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, a total of 3,300 warrants were issued by the Parole Board.
3,300 warrants
Warrants entered into GCIC/NCIC system in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, the GCIC Unit entered 1,864 warrants into the GCIC/NCIC system.
1,864 warrants
Parole revocations in FY25 Statistic
During FY25, the Board revoked 1,273 parole violators returning the offenders to prison to serve their sentences in confinement. The number of offenders revoked decreased by 11.41% (-164) from the previous fiscal year.
1,273 revocations vs. FY24 revocations
Technical violations as share of revocations in FY25 Statistic
Of the FY25 total number of revocations, less than 1% were revoked based on technical violations which include but are not limited to drug use, curfew violations, or failure to pay fines and fees.
1%
Final revocation hearings conducted in FY25 Statistic
Parole Board Members conducted 256 final revocation hearings during FY25.
256 hearings
SB174 commutation cases considered in FY25 Statistic
During FY 2025, the Parole Board considered 284 cases for commutation under SB174 and commuted forty (40) cases that met the strict criteria of the Board.
284 cases considered vs. Cases commuted
Pardon and restoration of rights applications in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, 874 pardon and restoration of rights applications were received and 436 were granted (all types). There were ten (10) fewer applications granted during the fiscal year compared to the previous year.
874 applications received vs. Applications granted
Pardons granted without firearms restored in FY25 Statistic
Pardons granted without firearms being restored: 169. Pardons granted with firearms being restored: 164. Restorations of civil and political rights: 80. Restorations of civil and political rights with firearms restored: 23. Total applications grante…
169 pardons
Pardon notifications sent to district attorneys in FY25 Statistic
During FY25, the Parole Board sent 1,647 notifications to district attorneys regarding ex-offenders applying for pardons.
1,647 notifications
Offenders released to out-of-state supervision in FY25 Statistic
During FY25, the Interstate Compact Unit released 329 offenders to out-of-state supervision.
329 offenders
Georgia offenders under active parole supervision in Compact states Statistic
As of June 30, 2025, there were 2,188 Georgia offenders under active parole supervision in Compact states and 1,271 other Compact state offenders on parole supervision in Georgia.
2,188 offenders vs. Other Compact state offenders in Georgia
Foreign national offenders released to ICE in FY25 Statistic
Via the ICE Rapid REPAT (Removal of Eligible Parolees Accepted for Transfer) Program, in FY 2025, no foreign national offenders were released to ICE for deportation resulting in no cost avoidance.
0 offenders
Documents scanned by Scanning and Imaging Unit in FY25 Statistic
In FY 2025, the Scanning and Imaging Unit scanned 54,576 documents into the Portal, GPEDS, and TRIM case management systems. During FY 2025, 13,582 archived files were imaged, with about 113,877 remaining.
54,576 documents
Parolees referred to New Direction Recovery Program in FY25 Statistic
For FY25, thirty-six (36) parolees were referred to the New Direction Recovery Program. As of June 30, 2025, fourteen (14) parolees had graduated from the program during the fiscal year and were returned to parole supervision.
36 parolees referred vs. Parolees graduated
Investigations completed in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, the investigators completed 33,221 investigations for the Parole Board. Fifty-six (56) investigators work in the Investigations Division.
33,221 investigations
Parole investigators in the field Statistic
Thirty-three (33) investigators are assigned to the field and complete post sentence investigations and profiles for all offenders sentenced by Georgia courts.
33 investigators
Institutional investigators in FY25 Statistic
Nine (9) investigators are assigned to work within the prisons to conduct personal history investigations during the diagnostic process at which time they will interview inmates.
9 investigators
Criminal investigators in FY25 Statistic
The Board has fourteen (14) P.O.S.T. certified criminal investigators who conduct face-to-face interviews and complete post sentence investigations.
14 investigators
GOVS phone calls handled in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, 11,872 phone calls from or to victims were handled by staff.
11,872 phone calls
GOVS outgoing correspondence in FY25 Statistic
32,808 outgoing correspondences were sent to victims in response to concerns in FY25.
32,808 correspondences
GOVS incoming correspondence in FY25 Statistic
10,044 correspondences were received from victims and filed with the office in FY25.
10,044 correspondences
New GA-V.I.P. registrants in FY25 Statistic
For FY25, there were 3,300 new GA-V.I.P. registrants, and 4,801 phone calls from victims were logged into the system. The system made 2,131 calls to victims.
3,300 registrants
Victim Offender Dialogues initiated in FY25 Statistic
In Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, seven (7) VOD dialogues were initiated. Eleven (11) more dialogues are in the process of being completed in FY 2026.
7 dialogues
Victim Impact Sessions conducted since April 2022 Statistic
Since April 2022, thirty-eight (38) Victim Impact Sessions have been conducted, and 584 victims have had the opportunity to meet with the Board. In FY25, sixteen (16) Victim Impact Sessions were conducted.
38 sessions vs. Victims who met with the Board
Victim Impact Sessions conducted in FY25 Statistic
In FY25, sixteen (16) Victim Impact Sessions were conducted across Georgia.
16 sessions
GOVS community outreach reach in FY25 Statistic
The Georgia Office of Victim Services participated in more than a dozen events statewide, connecting with nearly 2,000 individuals through outreach, education, and advocacy.
2,000 individuals
Total employees at Parole Board in FY25 Statistic
Total Employees: 181. 176 full-time, 5 part-time employees.
181 employees
Employees by race/ethnicity in FY25 Statistic
Employees by race/ethnicity: Asian 2, Black 104, White 72, Hispanic 2, Other 1.
104 Black employees
Employees by gender in FY25 Statistic
Employees by gender: Female 146, Male 35.
146 female employees vs. Male employees
Employees by tenure in FY25 Statistic
Employees by tenure: 00-10 Years 79, 11-20 Years 49, 21-30 Years 36, 31-40 Years 16, 41+ Years 1.
79 employees with 0-10 years
Employees by age group in FY25 Statistic
Employees by age group: 21-30: 17, 31-40: 39, 41-50: 47, 51-60: 51, 61-70: 27.
51 employees aged 51-60
Retirement eligibility of Parole Board employees Statistic
Retirement eligibility: Eligible currently 7.1%, Eligible in 12 months or less 4.0%, Eligible in 1 to 2 Years 1.7%, 3 to 5 Years 9.7%, Cumulative within 5 Years 2.6%.
7.1%
New hires, promotions, and retirements in FY25 Statistic
Employment statistics FY25: New Hires 15, Promotions 24, Retirements 10.
15 new hires vs. Promotions
Military veterans employed by Parole Board Statistic
The agency employs twelve military veterans.
12 veterans
Training hours taken by sworn staff in FY25 Statistic
Training hours taken by staff FY25: Sworn staff 3,129 hours. Non-sworn staff 704 hours. Training hours delivered by Parole Training Office 674.
3,129 hours vs. Non-sworn staff hours
Annual savings from Android MDM migration Statistic
Successfully transitioned agency Android phones to JumpClouds Mobile Device Management (MDM), at no additional cost, saving approximately $14,000 annually.
$14,000
Cybersecurity maturity score from UGA risk assessment Statistic
Completed a comprehensive risk assessment with the University of Georgia, achieving a cybersecurity maturity score of 3.2, indicating a defined and proactive security posture.
3.2 score
Total FY25 expenditures Statistic
Total FY25 Expenditures: $21,634,700.96.
$21.6M
Personal services expenditures in FY25 Statistic
Personal Services expenditures in FY25: $19,046,158.44, representing 88.04% of total expenditures.
$19.0M
Total FY25 budget by program Statistic
FY 2025 Budget by program: Board Administration $2,607,857.00, Clemency Decisions $18,390,468.00, Victim Services $754,587.00. Total Funds $21,752,912.00.
$21.8M
FY25 expenditures by fund type Statistic
FY 2025 Expenditures by Fund Type: State Funds $21,274,821.51, Federal Funds $102,108.00, Other Funds $257,771.45. Total Funds $21,634,700.96.
$21.3M
Georgia prison population approximately 50,000 Statistic
Today, with an inmate population at approximately 50,000, the Board still consists of five voting members.
50,000 inmates
Prison population in 1973 when Board expanded to five members Statistic
In 1973, as the prison population rose to 9,000, the Constitution was amended to increase the Board to five members.
9,000 inmates
Board Members and leadership engaged offenders at more than thirty facilities in FY25 Statistic
Board Members and leadership engaged offenders at more than thirty facilities in FY25.
30 facilities
Parole is not a right in Georgia Quote
While parole is not a right in Georgia, it's important for eligible offenders to understand that a possible release on parole is up to them.
Quote from Chris Barnett on offender engagement Quote
"Eligible individuals in the system are being provided a tremendous opportunity to hear from Board Members and leadership first-hand as we visit our state's prisons. While parole is not a right in Georgia, it's important for eligible offenders to un…
Quote from Joyette Holmes on prison visits Quote
"These are trips we definitely need to make, to meet offenders, when possible, individually and in groups and speak to them about their futures. We want to thank the leadership at the Department of Corrections for seeing the value of the parole boar…
Quote from Robert Markley on appointment Quote
"I am humbled at the opportunity to serve the citizens of Georgia as a member of the parole board. Providing public safety has always driven me as a law enforcement officer. I will bring that same dedication to making important executive clemency de…
Quote from Wayne Bennett on Victim Impact Sessions Quote
"This is information the Board Members are seeking and need in order to make an informed parole decision." — Wayne Bennett, Vice Chair, Georgia Parole Board
Quote from Chase Studstill on Victim Impact Sessions Quote
"We certainly appreciate the Board utilizing resources to come to Berrien County to meet with these victims. After a conviction, it is important that victims stay involved in the process to ensure the Board considers their information." — Chase Stud…
Quote from David Herring on victim information Quote
"It's very important that victims know the process and know they can provide information to the board about the impact of the crime on them. Their words during these sessions are important, not just to them but to the board members who are deciding …
Quote from Timothy Vaughn on victim services Quote
"These crime victims are benefiting from the services offered by the Parole Board and the Georgia Office of Victim Services." — Oconee Judicial Circuit District Attorney Timothy Vaughn
Quote from David Herring on APAI conference Quote
"This was a great conference and was well attended by parole officials from around the world. Our board and staff were able to engage their counterparts and likewise I'm proud of how the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles represented our agency to…
Quote from Lloyd Chilundika on Georgia Parole Board Quote
"We could not have selected a better U.S. state to learn more about parole processes. The information sharing and collaboration between the Georgia Parole Board and their stakeholders to include law enforcement, victims and the public is impressive.…
Board established in 1943 with three members Legal fact
In 1943, the Board was established through a constitutional amendment and consisted of three members.
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.
Parole Board Members appointed to seven-year staggered 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.
Board is sole authority for parole decisions in Georgia Legal fact
The Board is the sole authority in the state to make informed decisions regarding which state inmates should be paroled, thereby ensuring that the state's prison beds are dedicated to the offenders who have committed the most serious crimes.
Board is only entity in Georgia with 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.
Three votes required to grant or deny parole Legal fact
A majority of three votes is required to grant or deny parole, but other votes may also be required for each individual parole case.
Parole hearings are not held in Georgia Legal fact
Parole hearings are not held. However, each offender entering the Georgia prison system is interviewed by parole staff.
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.'
1938 Commission given broad parole powers Legal fact
In 1938, the Commission was given broad powers to grant paroles without the approval of the Governor and without limitation on its authority, 'save the welfare of the State.'
1943 constitutional amendment ratified by 4.5 to 1 ratio Legal fact
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 State Board of Pardons and Paroles as an independent agency authorized to grant paroles, pardons, repri…
Seven deadly sins offenses committed before 1995 eligible after seven years Legal fact
If a crime considered to be a 'seven deadly sins' offense was committed prior to 1995, the offender is eligible after seven years.
Seven deadly sins offenses committed beginning 1995 eligible after 14 years Legal fact
Beginning in 1995, offenders committing these crimes became eligible after serving 14 years.
Seven deadly sins offenses committed after June 30, 2006 eligible after 30 years Legal fact
If the crime is committed after June 30, 2006, the offender is eligible for parole after serving 30 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.
SB174 commutation provision Legal fact
Senate Bill 174, passed in 2017, included a provision requiring the Board to consider commuting the sentences of specific offenders serving a split sentence who have successfully completed twelve (12) consecutive months of parole supervision (O.C.G.…
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.
Sex offender pardon requires ten years crime-free Legal fact
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.
2015 law created pardon notification process Legal fact
A state law adopted in 2015 created a notification process informing registered victims and prosecutors, in specific cases, when an offender is seeking a pardon.
72-hour statutory notification before parole release Legal fact
Judges, district attorneys, sheriffs and registered victims receive a 72-hour statutory notification that the offender is about to be paroled. (O.C.G.A. § 42-9-47)
Victim notification requirement under O.C.G.A. § 17-17-13 Legal fact
Registered victims of a crime are given notification at the time the Board is considering a parole release, allowing for a period for the victim to send the Board information about the case. (O.C.G.A. § 17-17-13)
90-day notification for serious violent felonies under 2017 legislation Legal fact
As a result of legislation enacted in 2017, the Parole Board notifies the district attorney if an offender convicted of a serious violent felony is under consideration for parole release. The notification is made at a minimum of 90 days prior to the…
Automatic revocation under O.C.G.A. § 42-9-51 Legal fact
A revocation can occur during a parole revocation hearing, when the offender signs a waiver removing the need for a revocation hearing, or automatic revocation if the conditions exist according to O.C.G.A. § 42-9-51.
Agency reorganization in FY25 Policy
The agency operations for the State Board of Pardons and Paroles were restructured in FY 2025. The investigations unit was moved from what was formerly the Clemency Division and the Investigations Division was formed. Two major outcomes were: Transf…
First Parole Comfort Dog Program in the nation Policy
During Fiscal Year 2025 'Asher,' the agency's comfort dog arrived on the scene. The Comfort Dog Program, which includes Handler Mandy Kimner, was introduced and is a part of the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Program located with the Geo…
Victim Impact Sessions introduced in FY2022 Policy
During Fiscal Year 2022, Victim Impact Sessions (VIS) were introduced. These sessions provide an opportunity for victims whose offender is within twelve to eighteen months of parole consideration to discuss their case in a small group setting with a…
Victim Offender Dialogue program Policy
The Victim Offender Dialogue (VOD) program offers a structured, safe environment for victims of violent crimes to engage in a one-on-one meeting with their offenders. Initiated solely by the victim, this program requires the offender's voluntary par…
Victim Support Partners program Policy
The Victim Support Partners (VSPs) program is a comprehensive network throughout the entire state, made up of crime victims registered with the Georgia Office of Victim Services. Within this network, dedicated victim volunteers spend time offering a…
GA-V.I.P. automated victim information system Policy
The Georgia Victim Information Program, GA-V.I.P., is a 24-hour automated information system. It provides registered crime victims and their family members with access to information about their offender. Victims can register with GA-V.I.P. by compl…
New Direction Recovery Program Policy
The New Direction Recovery Program located at the Treutlen Probation Detention Center is an intensive addiction program for parolees who are both higher risk and higher need offenders who were not successful in community-based treatment and supervis…
Performance Incentive Credit program Policy
The Georgia Department of Corrections operates an inmate Performance Incentive Credit (PIC) program. By completing rehabilitative programming while incarcerated, state inmates can work toward an earlier possible parole release. The Parole Board dete…
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System Policy
In most cases, the Board's Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System is applied which includes a time-to-serve recommendation. The guidelines account for the severity of the crime and the offender's risk to reoffend. The offender's risk to reoffend i…
GPEDS electronic case management system Policy
The process of preparing a case for consideration by the Board is completed electronically in GPEDS (Georgia Parole Evidence-based Data System). GPEDS allows Board Members to access the offender's case material and make parole decisions electronical…
Parole revocation hearings conducted via video conferencing Policy
Parole revocation hearings are conducted from remote locations throughout the state via video conferencing. Use of this technology has reduced travel costs for all three agencies involved in the process, the Parole Board, the Department of Correctio…
Intermediate sanctions reduce technical parole revocations Finding
The appropriate recommendations and enforcement of intermediate sanctions, such as treatment referral, administrative hearings, electronic monitoring, GPS monitoring, day reporting centers and parole detention centers result in the low percentage of…
Parole completion rate exceeds national average Finding
The percentage of offenders successfully completing parole was above 70% for the fiscal year, and again well above the national average of approximately 60%.
Parole revocations declining trend FY21-FY25 Trend
Parole revocations declined from 2,373 in FY21 to 1,825 in FY22, 1,552 in FY23, 1,437 in FY24, and 1,273 in FY25.
Parole releases trend FY21-FY25 Trend
Parole releases: FY21: 8,634; FY22: 6,245; FY23: 5,863; FY24: 5,443; FY25: 5,588.
PICs awarded trend FY21-FY25 Trend
PICs Awarded: FY21: 36,257; FY22: 30,313; FY23: 26,855; FY24: 29,962; FY25: 30,710.
Cost avoidance trend FY21-FY25 Trend
Cost avoidance: FY21 $404 million, FY22 $376 million, FY23 $319 million, FY24 $343 million, FY25 more than $380 million.
Cost per day trend FY21-FY25 Trend
Cost per day: Incarceration: FY21 $62.23, FY22 $62.23, FY23 $59.14, FY24 $68.51, FY25 $80.31. Parole: FY21 $1.80, FY22 $2.22, FY23 $2.67, FY24 $2.89, FY25 $3.13.
Life sentence time served trend 1973-2025 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 the year 2000, the average had increased to more than 15 years. By 2010, the average time …
Parole population declining trend Trend
The population of offenders on parole under community supervision decreased from 15,105 on July 1, 2024, to 14,568 on June 30, 2025.
APAI Conference hosted in Atlanta May 18-21, 2025 Case detail
Parole practitioners from the United States and International countries came to Atlanta for the Association of Paroling Authorities International (APAI) Conference May 18 through May 21, 2025. The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles served as the h…
National Parole Board of Zambia visit Case detail
The Chairman and Secretary of the National Parole Board of Zambia traveled to the United States and Atlanta, Georgia during Fiscal Year 2025 to learn about the Georgia Parole Board's decision-making processes and operations. Zambia Chairman Lloyd Ch…
Robert Markley appointed to Board in January 2025 Case detail
Governor Brian Kemp appointed Robert Markley as a member of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles in January of 2025. Markley is the former sheriff of Morgan County where he served in the position for twenty-four years, retiring in December of 2024.
Kimberly McCoy appointed to Board December 1, 2025 Case detail
Kimberly McCoy was appointed to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles by Governor Brian Kemp, December 1, 2025. Ms. McCoy is retired from the Cobb Family Justice Center.
Joyette Holmes elected Chair for FY2026 Case detail
Joyette Holmes serves as Chair of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles for Fiscal Year 2026. She was elected Chair by the members at the September 2025, monthly board meeting. Mrs. Holmes was appointed by Governor Brian Kemp in January of 2024.
Wayne Bennett serves as Vice Chair for FY2026 Case detail
Wayne V. Bennett serves as Vice Chair of the Parole Board for FY 2026. Mr. Bennett was appointed to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles by Governor Brian Kemp in March of 2024. Mr. Bennett is the first former Georgia sheriff to be appointed to th…
David Herring appointed to Board in 2018 Case detail
David Herring was appointed to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles in 2018 by Governor Nathan Deal. Mr. Herring has previously served as Chairman (FY25) and Vice Chairman for the Parole Board.
Christopher Barnett appointed Executive Director in July 2015 Case detail
Christopher Barnett was appointed to the position of Executive Director of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles in July of 2015. Director Barnett joined the Georgia Parole Board in 2003 as a parole officer in the Marietta Parole District.
Felecia Holloway named Deputy Executive Director in November 2024 Case detail
Felecia Holloway was named Deputy Executive Director of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles in November of 2024. Holloway's state government service spans more than thirty-four years.
Joyette Holmes served as special prosecutor for Ahmaud Arbery case Case detail
Georgia's Attorney General selected Joyette Holmes to serve as the special prosecutor for the Ahmaud Arbery case.
Kimberly McCoy secured over $10M in grant funds Statistic
Ms. McCoy secured over $10M in grant funds during her career.
$10.0M
Kimberly McCoy assisted in passage of Crime Victims Restitution Act of 2005 Case detail
Active with legislation, Ms. McCoy assisted in the passage of the Crime Victims Restitution Act of 2005 and with the successful revision to the Georgia Crime Victims' Bill of Rights in 2010.
Wayne Bennett served as Glynn County sheriff 1992-2012 Case detail
Mr. Bennett served as sheriff of Glynn County from 1992 to 2012, retiring from the office. As sheriff, he was responsible for the operations of a 600-capacity correctional facility.
Paid internship program hired three college students Statistic
The agency's paid internship program resulted in the hiring of three college enrolled students for a six-week period.
3 students
Sworn staff minimum annual training requirement Policy
Sworn staff must complete a minimum of 20 hours annually which includes mandatory firearms requalification, use of deadly force and De-escalation and Community Policing training.
Non-sworn staff minimum annual training requirement Policy
Non-sworn staff must complete a minimum of eight hours of training annually.
District operations managers required to complete 20 hours P.O.S.T. training annually Policy
District operations managers are required to complete twenty (20) hours of P.O.S.T. training each year. The training includes weapons requalification.
District operations managers assigned to ten judicial districts Statistic
The district operations managers are assigned to the ten (10) Judicial Districts in the state of Georgia.
10 judicial districts
ICAOS comprises all 50 states plus territories Legal fact
ICAOS comprises all fifty (50) states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands.
GOVS represents three state agencies Finding
The Georgia Office of Victim Services represents three state agencies: the Georgia Department of Corrections, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, and the Georgia Department of Community Supervision.
Victim Impact Sessions conducted in 16 judicial circuits in FY25 Case detail
In FY25, sixteen (16) Victim Impact Sessions were conducted in the Cobb, Oconee, Gwinnett, Douglas, Macon, Griffin, Bell-Forsyth, Conasauga, Houston, Tifton, West Georgia, Ogeechee, Dublin, Alapaha, Western, and Lookout Mountain judicial circuits.
National Crime Victims' Rights Week panel at University of West Georgia Case detail
As part of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Georgia Office of Victim Services organized and led a panel discussion at the University of West Georgia, focusing on the theme of Connecting < Kinship > Healing.
EAP expanded to household members in FY25 Policy
In Fiscal Year 2025, the Office of Human Resources (HR) placed a strong focus on employee mental health and overall wellness. The EAP (Employee Assistance Program) was expanded providing benefits to staff and their household members.
FY25 budget highlights include 4% cost-of-living adjustment Policy
FY25 Budget Highlights: Funds to provide a 4% cost-of-living adjustment for state employees not to exceed $3,000. Funds to provide for an additional $3,000 targeted salary enhancement for POST certified law enforcement officers. Funds for three Crim…
Board conducts monthly Parole Board Meetings Policy
The Board conducts monthly Parole Board Meetings at which policy changes are considered and operational updates are provided. Offender cases are not discussed, and parole decisions are not made at the monthly Board Meetings.
Eligible inmates automatically considered for parole Policy
Eligible inmates are automatically considered for parole. Three of the five board members must agree on a decision.
Tentative Parole Month can be rescinded at any time Policy
The Tentative Parole Month or 'tentative grant' can be rescinded at any time. The TPM is not a release date or a final parole release decision.
Parole release date can be rescinded at any time prior to release Policy
A release date that is set can be rescinded at any time prior to the release.
Life-sentenced inmates may receive expedited parole reviews 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.
Life-sentenced inmates may be required to complete work release as precondition 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.
Critical Analysis Unit on call 24/7 Policy
CAU personnel are on call 24-hours a day, seven days a week, assisting the division with operations and responses to critical incidents and major investigations involving parole eligible offenders housed by the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Critical Analysis Unit collaborates with GDC on Security Threat Groups Policy
This unit collaborates with the Georgia Department of Corrections regarding Security Threat Groups (STG), gang offenders, offenders with Immigration and Customs detainers and those offenders who are classified with medical requirements in order to p…
Offenders on parole supervised by Georgia Department of Community Supervision Policy
Offenders released on parole are supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision.
Board warrants placed in GCIC/NCIC system Policy
If the offender cannot be immediately located, the Parole Board warrant is then placed in the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) system or the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) system. Both systems are connected to the Criminal Justice I…
State law authorizes Board to issue arrest warrants for parole violators Legal fact
State law authorizes the Parole Board Members to issue warrants for the arrest of alleged parole violators.
Sex offender pardon applicants must provide risk level evaluation Policy
As a part of the application process, sex offender pardon applicants must also provide a current copy of their most recent risk level evaluation as assigned by the Sexual Offender Risk Review Board (SORRB), provide a psychosexual evaluation, and sub…
Parole Board exceeds statutory notification requirements for pardons Finding
The Parole Board exceeds the statutory requirements and sends these notifications regarding all applications received.
Board Members conduct clemency meeting for condemned inmates Policy
Board Members conduct a clemency meeting for the condemned inmate after which they may commute a death sentence to life with or without the possibility of parole, issue a stay or deny clemency.
Board authority includes pardons, paroles, and commutations Legal fact
The Board's authority includes granting paroles, pardons, and commutations including death sentences.
Board actively solicits input and accepts pleas and protests of clemency Policy
The Board also actively solicits input and accepts pleas for and protests of clemency throughout the consideration process. Information from community stakeholders, including victims, the public, and criminal justice partners, is considered by the B…
Board Members have discretion to determine who receives clemency Legal fact
The Board Members have discretion to determine who receives clemency.
Board decision process is evidence-based, scientific and data-driven Finding
The Board's decision process is evidence-based, scientific and data-driven.
Guidelines not applied to life sentence reviews Policy
Although the guidelines are not applied to life sentence reviews, the Board maintains a comprehensive parole file in each case and the members review each case thoroughly before voting to grant or deny parole.
Board Members are full-time state employees Finding
Board Members are full-time state employees from various professions including criminal justice and private business.
Parole Board engagement with stakeholders in FY25 Case detail
Engagement included attending and meeting with the following stakeholders and partners: Georgia Prison Wardens Association, Atlanta Police Foundation Repeat Offender Commission, Crime Stoppers of Greater Atlanta, Macon Regional Crime Stoppers, MUST …
Community engagement events in FY25 Case detail
The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles engaged the community through various events to include: University of North Georgia Public Board Meeting and Career Fair, High School Career Fairs, National Night Out Events.
Parole presentations at national and state training events Case detail
The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles provided training at national and state training events to include presentations for the American Probation and Parole Association, National Organization for Victim Advocacy, and the Georgia Professional Asso…
Collaboration with other paroling authorities post-conference Case detail
Since the conference, we have continued to collaborate with other paroling authorities, including Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas, to explore innovations that strengthen decision-making and promote public safety across jurisdictions.
Asher and Kimner recognized by Marsy's Law of Georgia Case detail
During the fiscal year, Asher and Kimner were recognized by Marsy's Law of Georgia.
Comfort Dog Program made possible with GDC and DCS partnership Case detail
The program was made possible in conjunction with the Georgia Department of Corrections and the Georgia Department of Community Supervision.
Georgia hosted APAI Annual Training Conference Case detail
Georgia proudly hosted the Association of Paroling Authorities International (APAI) Annual Training Conference in Atlanta, where our team served as the host committee.
Georgia's Unique Approach to Serving Crime Victims Post-Conviction presentation Case detail
'Georgia's Unique Approach to Serving Crime Victims Post-Conviction' was another highlight as the Georgia Office of Victim Services presented many of its effective support programs at the APAI conference.
Joyette Holmes served as panelist for APAI opening session Case detail
Georgia Parole Board Member Joyette Holmes served as a panelist for the opening session of the conference's first day. The session was titled, 'Sharing Considerations Across the Globe.'
Zambia officials toured GDC facility and met with Governor's Office Case detail
The Zambia officials toured a Georgia Department of Corrections facility and met with officials from the Georgia Department of Community Supervision and Governor Brian Kemp's Office.
Victims met with Board on average twice monthly in FY25 Statistic
During FY 2025, we met on average, twice monthly with crime victims. Hundreds of victims were able to meet with a board member during the fiscal year.
2 meetings per month
Each Board Member visited prisons in FY25 Case detail
Each Board Member visited prisons in FY 2025 delivering a message for the offender to complete assigned programming, follow institutional rules and prepare fully for possible parole.
Board Members attended GDC program graduations and Day Reporting Center graduations Case detail
In FY25, Parole Board leadership including Board Members supported offender success by attending and speaking with offenders graduating from Georgia Department of Corrections' programs and Day Reporting Center graduations conducted by the Georgia De…
Parole Board leadership attended offender engagement at state, county, and private facilities Case detail
During Fiscal Year 2025, and a process that will continue into FY 2026, parole leaders, investigators, and Board Members have engaged state offenders inside Georgia prisons, county, and private facilities.
Each offender entering state prison is interviewed by parole staff Policy
Each offender entering state prison is interviewed by parole staff.
Offenders encouraged to complete programming and follow institutional rules Policy
Offenders are encouraged to complete programming, follow institutional rules, and prepare themselves for reentry.
Parole Board recognized nationally as leader among paroling authorities Finding
Although the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles is recognized nationally as a leader among paroling authorities, we remain committed to continuous improvement.
Parole Board uses 4Es framework Policy
The Agency is guided by the 4E's: Engaging Stakeholders, Educating the Community, Encouraging Active Participation, Enhancing Operations.
Parole Board values Ethics, Integrity, Equity and Innovation Policy
We value Ethics, Integrity, Equity and Innovation.
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 opportunities for positive change.
Parole Board vision statement Policy
To be the nation's most effective and efficient executive clemency authority by: Making informed, scientific, data-driven clemency decisions based in constitutional authority and guided by applicable state law; Preparing offenders for positive chang…
Georgia Constitution provides checks and balances over offender 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…
Parole Board manages finite resource of state prison beds Finding
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles, as a part of the executive branch, manages the finite resource of state prison beds by considering eligible offenders and making parole grants in the interest of public safety.
Parole consideration process keeps public safe and assists GDC with prison bed management Finding
As a result of informed decisions, Georgia's 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.
Parole eligible offender is not entitled to parole Legal fact
A parole eligible offender is not entitled to parole, however, by law; those who are eligible for consideration must be considered by the Parole Board.
Parole case file includes investigative reports and stakeholder information Policy
The file includes investigative reports, reports from the Department of Corrections, the offender's criminal history, circumstances of current offenses, information from the district attorney, victims, and other stakeholders.
Hearing examiners prepare rating summaries using Parole Decision Guidelines Policy
To make equitable recommendations to the Board Members, hearing examiners process and prepare rating summaries utilizing the agency's Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System.
Board Members may deviate from guidelines recommendation 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.…
Higher crime severity level correlates with longer recommended time served Finding
The higher the crime severity level, the more serious the offense, and the more likely it will be recommended that the offender serve a longer period prior to parole.
TPM set when three of five board members agree 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.
Inmate TPM status available on agency website 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.
Final review determines if release date should be set Policy
As the 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 because of the offender not c…
Six-month notification sent to judges and district attorneys for serious felony cases Policy
The Board sends a notification to judges and district attorneys six months prior to specific offenders becoming parole eligible. This notification is sent regarding 'serious felony' cases.
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 received parole.
72-hour notification sent in serious violent felony cases to DA and sheriff of release county Policy
The Pre-Release Considerations Division, in addition, sends the 72-hour notification in 'serious violent felony' cases to the district attorney and sheriff of the county where the offender is being released to, if different from the county of convic…
Registered victims can use automated system for offender status updates Policy
Registered crime victims may also use an automated system to call and receive an offender status update. (Review GA-V.I.P. at https://pap.georgia.gov/victim-information-program-vip)
State prosecutors routinely provide information to the Board Policy
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 can provide information and their view of the case.
Parole investigators collect conviction details and interview inmates 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…
Case initialization includes reviewing sentencing package and requesting legal investigations Policy
The first step in processing cases for consideration is referred to as initializing the case. This includes reviewing the sentencing package for completeness, determining consideration type, and requesting legal investigations.
Post-Release Considerations Division has four units Policy
The Post-Release Considerations Division has four units: the Scanning and Imaging Unit, the GCIC/Violations Unit, the Interstate Compact Unit, and the Pardons and Restoration of Rights Unit.
Post-Release Considerations Division mission Policy
The Mission of the Post-Release Considerations Division is to serve and protect the citizens of Georgia and the State Board of Pardons and Paroles by: Engaging internal and external stakeholders, Effectively partnering with other public safety agenc…
Parole violations consist of new criminal charges and technical violations 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.
District operations manager reviews violations to determine Board warrant Policy
Upon receipt of the report, the district operations manager conducts a thorough case investigation to determine what action the Board should take in the best interest of public safety. The recommendation to the Board could be treatment referral up t…
Each revocation hearing presided over by individual Board Member Policy
Each hearing is presided over by an individual Board Member who hears the evidence in the case and makes a recommendation to the full Board to either revoke parole and return the offender to prison or continue parole and community supervision.
Most offenders facing revocation admit violations and sign waiver Finding
Most offenders facing parole revocation proceedings admit their parole violations and sign a waiver to be returned to prison eliminating a final hearing.
Pardon application process includes thorough investigations Policy
The pardon application process includes thorough investigations and provides the most comprehensive information available to assist the Board in making quality pardon decisions.
Pardon applicants must provide information about criminal offenses and community contributions Policy
The current application requires applicants to provide 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 community.
Pardon process continuously reviewed Policy
The pardon process is continuously reviewed to ensure informed decisions are the result.
District operations managers are P.O.S.T. certified officers Policy
District operations managers are P.O.S.T. certified officers and P.O.S.T. certified general and or firearm instructors.
District operations managers provide training to other law enforcement Policy
In addition to managing the parole violations, revocation, and commutation process, district operations managers provide training to other law enforcement and perform Board security and special law enforcement details.
Interstate Compact Unit processes transfers of Georgia inmates paroled out-of-state Policy
The State Board of Pardons and Paroles' Interstate Compact Unit is responsible for processing the transfer of all Georgia inmates paroled to an out-of-state residence. In addition, the unit responded to violations, conducted probable cause hearings,…
Investigations Division established as stand-alone division in FY25 Policy
During Fiscal Year 2025, the Board's investigators transitioned to a stand-alone division of the agency. Reports completed by the investigators provide critical information necessary for the Parole Board Members to make scientific, informed, data-dr…
Three classifications of investigators Policy
The agency has three classifications of investigators: parole investigators, institutional investigators, and criminal investigators.
Parole investigators deployed across the state Policy
These investigators are deployed across the state to be able to meet with district attorneys and visit courthouses and law enforcement organizations in order to gain access to criminal and conviction records.
Institutional investigators conduct personal history investigations Policy
Nine (9) investigators are assigned to work within the prisons to conduct personal history investigations during the diagnostic process at which time they will interview inmates. These investigative reports include information regarding the offender…
Information collected used to formulate case plan for offender Policy
Information collected provides both the prison system and the parole board with information used to formulate a case plan for the offender which includes necessary programming geared toward rehabilitation and providing the individual with tools and …
Criminal investigators interview life-sentenced inmates and pardon applicants Policy
These investigators conduct face-to-face interviews and complete post sentence investigations for inmates serving a life sentence with the possibility of parole and these investigators interview all former offenders who are applying for restoration …
GOVS keeps registered victims updated on parole status Policy
GOVS keeps registered victims updated on the parole status of their offenders and notifies them if an offender is being considered for parole or has been released from confinement.
GA-V.I.P. provides release information after sentence completion Policy
Through GA-V.I.P., registered victims receive information regarding a prison release after the inmate completes the court-ordered term of incarceration (end of sentence), or if the inmate is placed on community supervision.
VOD participation does not influence Board considerations Policy
The offender must also understand that participation does not influence any considerations by the Board.
VOD process spans several months with trained facilitators Policy
The process demands thorough preparation, spanning several months, facilitated by trained professionals. These facilitators play a pivotal role in building trust and honesty with both parties, guiding them through the preparation phase and ensuring …
Victim Support Partners meet regularly for group gatherings Policy
These Victim Support Partners meet regularly for group gatherings, participate in Victim Impact Sessions, and assist other survivors as they prepare for Victim Offender Dialogues.
VIS focuses on cases 12-18 months from parole consideration Policy
These sessions provide an opportunity for victims whose offender is within twelve to eighteen months of parole consideration to discuss their case in a small group setting.
VIS allows Board to receive current information from victims and DAs Finding
By focusing on cases that are about to be reviewed by the Board, the Board is able to receive more current and timely information from both the victim and the district attorney.
Hybrid and remote work models improve hiring and retention Finding
Hybrid and remote work models offer flexibility, resulting in improved hiring processes and retention.
Greater emphasis on succession planning due to approaching retirements Finding
As a result of an increasing number of employees approaching retirement, a greater emphasis was placed on developing current staff and planning for succession to ensure continuity.
Quarterly training sessions for sworn and non-sworn staff Policy
The Office of Human Resources offers quarterly training sessions for sworn and non-sworn staff.
Internship program goal to recruit future criminal justice professionals Policy
The agency's goal is to utilize the paid internship program to enhance the student college experience and recruit future criminal justice professionals to the Parole Board or another state public safety agency.
All agency employees must complete annual in-service training Policy
All agency employees must complete in-service training on an annual basis.
Unlawful Harassment and Professionalism and Ethics training required annually Policy
Both sworn and non-sworn staff must complete Unlawful Harassment and Professionalism and Ethics training each year as a part of their training hours and any other training as prescribed by law.
IT Unit oversees infrastructure, system maintenance, and cybersecurity Policy
The Parole Board's Information Technology (IT) Unit oversees critical agency operations, including infrastructure management, system maintenance, and cybersecurity, while driving the adoption of innovative technologies that enhance efficiency and op…
IT Help Desk Dashboard launched in FY25 Policy
Launched a real-time Help Desk performance dashboard to monitor support metrics such as ticket volume, response times, and resolution rates, improving decision-making and service efficiency.
Endpoint Detection & Response enhanced in FY25 Policy
Enhanced threat detection by enabling email attachment scanning in the Trellis Endpoint system, reducing exposure to malicious downloads and websites.
NextGen Workday SSO implemented Policy
Supported the implementation of the NextGen Workday ERP system with single sign-on (SSO) access for PAP users.
Electronic merge documents streamline revocation workflows Policy
Developed an electronic document merge process that eliminates manual printing and scanning, streamlining revocation staff workflows and improving efficiency.
Asset management systems integrated Policy
Integrated asset management systems to improve equipment utilization and accessibility.
Software deployment process implemented Policy
Implemented a new deployment process that significantly reduces installation time for essential applications on user laptops.
Parole Board is equal opportunity employer Policy
As an equal opportunity employer, the State Board of Pardons and Paroles encourages all qualified applicants to seek employment.
Parole Board address and contact information Policy
2 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, S.E. | Suite 430 West Tower | Atlanta, GA 30334-4909 | 404.657.9450 | www.pap.georgia.gov
Parole Board organizational structure includes multiple divisions Policy
The organizational chart shows the following divisions: Victim Services Division (Keir Chapple), Pre-Release Considerations (Crystal Moon), Investigations (Chris Kimmer), Post-Release Considerations (Kim Patton-Johnson), Legal Services (La'Quandra S…
Board Members serve on Department of Community Supervision Board Policy
As Parole Board Chair, Joyette Holmes serves on the Board of the Department of Community Supervision. As Parole Board Vice Chair, Wayne Bennett serves on the Board of the Department of Community Supervision.
Joyette Holmes first African American and woman to serve as Chief Magistrate Judge and DA in Cobb County Case detail
She is the first African American and woman to serve as both Chief Magistrate Judge and District Attorney in Cobb County.
Joyette Holmes appointed Cobb County District Attorney in 2019 Case detail
In 2019, Governor Kemp appointed Mrs. Holmes Cobb County District Attorney.
Joyette Holmes served as Chief Magistrate Judge for Cobb Judicial Circuit in 2015 Case detail
She later opened the Law Office of Joyette M. Holmes. She left private practice to serve as an Assistant District Attorney in Cobb County and as the Chief Magistrate Judge for the Cobb Judicial Circuit in 2015.
Wayne Bennett served on Presidential Security Teams Case detail
During his tenure as sheriff, Mr. Bennett served on the Executive Committee for the G8 Summit in 2004, and served on Presidential Security Teams for Presidents Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, and George W. Bush.
Wayne Bennett graduated from 152nd session of FBI National Academy Case detail
Mr. Bennett graduated from the 152nd session of the FBI National Academy. He served in the U.S. Army from 1974 to 1978.
David Herring former state trooper joining Georgia Department of Public Safety in 1994 Case detail
David Herring is a former state trooper, joining the Georgia Department of Public Safety in 1994. He has served the state of Georgia for more than thirty years.
David Herring received Governor's Public Safety Award for Heroism in 2001 Case detail
Mr. Herring received the Governor's Public Safety Award for Heroism in 2001, and he was recognized by the Gainesville Kiwanis Club as Trooper of the Year in 2004.
Robert Markley law enforcement career began in 1990 Case detail
Mr. Markley's thirty-five-year law enforcement career began in 1990 as a jailer at the Morgan County Sheriff's Office. In 1991, he graduated from the 97th class of the Northeast Georgia Police Academy. He served as a patrol officer and then investig…
Kimberly McCoy served as Director of Victim-Witness Unit for Cobb County DA Case detail
Ms. McCoy was the Director of the Victim-Witness Unit for the Cobb County District Attorney's Office from April 1999 to April 2024, where she also maintained a caseload providing services to capital case crime victims.
Kimberly McCoy founding member of SANE Program steering committee Case detail
She is a founding member of the steering committee that developed and implemented the SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) Program in Cobb County, a program that provides specialized forensic exams and support services for victims of sexual assault.
Kimberly McCoy served on Georgia's Sex Offender Registry Review Board 2007-2012 Case detail
She served on Georgia's Sex Offender Registry Review Board from 2007 to 2012.
Kimberly McCoy was Project Director for Cobb DA Domestic Violence Project Case detail
Ms. McCoy was the Project Director for the Cobb District Attorney's Office Domestic Violence Project from November 1997 until April 1999, responsible for training and education for law enforcement and the community at-large.
Kimberly McCoy was part-time professor at Kennesaw State University Case detail
Ms. McCoy was a part-time professor for the Department of Human Services at Kennesaw State University for over ten years.
Christopher Barnett joined Parole Board in 2003 as parole officer Case detail
Director Barnett joined the Georgia Parole Board in 2003 as a parole officer in the Marietta Parole District. Promotions to senior parole officer, assistant chief parole officer, field operations officer, senior field operations officer, and statewi…
Felecia Holloway began with Georgia Department of Corrections Case detail
Felecia Holloway's state government service spans more than thirty-four years. She began with the Georgia Department of Corrections as an accounting clerk and later became a Correctional Officer, Probation Officer I, Probation Officer II, and Center…
Felecia Holloway is P.O.S.T. certified General Instructor Case detail
She is also a P.O.S.T. certified General Instructor.
Parole Board budget includes funds for three Criminal Investigator positions Policy
FY25 Budget Highlights include funds for three Criminal Investigator positions and one Hearing Examiner position.
County Jail Subsidy expenditure in FY25 Statistic
County Jail Subsidy expenditure in FY25: $73,290.00, representing 0.34% of total expenditures.
$73,290
Real Estate Rentals expenditure in FY25 Statistic
Real Estate Rentals expenditure in FY25: $640,333.72, representing 2.96% of total expenditures.
$640,334
Computer Charges expenditure in FY25 Statistic
Computer Charges expenditure in FY25: $285,924.73, representing 1.32% of total expenditures.
$285,925
Contracts expenditure in FY25 Statistic
Contracts expenditure in FY25: $392,579.51, representing 1.81% of total expenditures.
$392,580
Telecommunications expenditure in FY25 Statistic
Telecommunications expenditure in FY25: $156,419.82, representing 0.72% of total expenditures.
$156,420
Motor Vehicles expenditure in FY25 Statistic
Motor Vehicles expenditure in FY25: $179,797.00, representing 0.83% of total expenditures.
$179,797
Equipment expenditure in FY25 Statistic
Equipment expenditure in FY25: $13,608.84, representing 0.06% of total expenditures.
$13,609
Regular Operating Expenses expenditure in FY25 Statistic
Regular Operating Expenses expenditure in FY25: $846,588.90, representing 3.91% of total expenditures.
$846,589
Board Administration program expenditures in FY25 Statistic
Board Administration program: FY 2025 Budget $2,607,857.00, FY 2025 Expenditures $2,589,905.56, 11.9885% of total budget.
$2.6M
Clemency Decisions program expenditures in FY25 Statistic
Clemency Decisions program: FY 2025 Budget $18,390,468.00, FY 2025 Expenditures $18,305,006.27, 84.5426% of total budget.
$18.3M
Victim Services program expenditures in FY25 Statistic
Victim Services program: FY 2025 Budget $754,587.00, FY 2025 Expenditures $739,789.13, 3.4689% of total budget.
$739,789
Sources
1 cited sources backing this research.
Primary
Official report
Key Entities
Organizations, people, facilities, and other named entities referenced in this research.
Ahmaud Arbery Case
[case]
American Probation and Parole Association
[organization]
Asher
[program]
Association of Paroling Authorities International
[organization]
Atlanta Police Foundation Repeat Offender Commission
[organization]
Brian Kemp
[person]
Bureau of Justice Statistics
[organization]
Carl Vinson Institute
[organization]
Chase Studstill
[person]
Chris Barnett
[person]
Clark Atlanta University
[organization]
Clive Njamba
[person]
Cobb County District Attorney's Office
[organization]
Cobb Family Justice Center
[organization]
Comfort Dog Program
[program]
Council of Superior Court Judges of Georgia
[organization]
Crime Stoppers of Greater Atlanta
[organization]
Crime Victims Restitution Act of 2005
[legislation]
Criminal Data Exchange Board
[organization]
Criminal Justice Information System
[organization]
Critical Analysis Unit
[program]
Critical Incident Stress Management Program
[program]
David Herring
[person]
Employee Assistance Program
[program]
FBI National Academy
[organization]
Felecia Holloway
[person]
Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police
[organization]
Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
[organization]
Georgia Crime Information Center
[organization]
Georgia Crime Victims' Bill of Rights
[legislation]
Georgia Department of Community Supervision
[organization]
Georgia Department of Corrections
[organization]
Georgia Department of Public Safety
[organization]
Georgia Gang Investigators Association
[organization]
Georgia Leadership Institute
[organization]
Georgia Office of Victim Services
[organization]
Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council
[organization]
Georgia Prison Wardens Association
[organization]
Georgia Professional Association of Community Supervision
[organization]
Georgia Public Defender Council
[organization]
Georgia Sheriffs' Association
[organization]
Georgia Southern University
[organization]
Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles
[organization]
Georgia Victim Information Program
[program]
Glynn County Police Department
[organization]
GPEDS
[program]
ICE Rapid REPAT Program
[program]
Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision
[organization]
Joyette Holmes
[person]
JumpClouds
[organization]
Kennesaw State University
[organization]
Kimberly McCoy
[person]
Liberty University
[organization]
Lloyd Chilundika
[person]
Macon Regional Crime Stoppers
[organization]
Mandy Kimner
[person]
Marsy's Law of Georgia
[legislation]
Morgan County Sheriff's Office
[organization]
MUST Ministries
[organization]
Nathan Deal
[person]
National Crime Information Center
[organization]
National Organization for Victim Advocacy
[organization]
National Parole Board of Zambia
[organization]
New Direction Recovery Program
[program]
NextGen Workday ERP
[program]
Northeast Georgia Police Academy
[organization]
Parole Decision Guidelines Rating System
[program]
Performance Incentive Credit Program
[program]
Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia
[organization]
Robert Markley
[person]
SANE Program
[program]
Senate Bill 174
[legislation]
Sexual Offender Risk Review Board
[organization]
The Women's College of Brenau University
[organization]
Timothy Vaughn
[person]
Trellis Endpoint
[program]
Treutlen Probation Detention Center
[facility]
University of Baltimore School of Law
[organization]
University of Georgia
[organization]
University of Mississippi
[organization]
University of North Georgia
[organization]
University of West Georgia
[organization]
Victim Impact Sessions
[program]
Victim Offender Dialogue Program
[program]
Victim Support Partners Program
[program]
Wayne Bennett
[person]
Related Topics
Research topics that draw on data from this collection.
Budget & Spending
The Georgia Department of Corrections now operates within roughly a $1.8 billion annual appropriation, with actual spending rising from $1.53 billion in FY2024 to $1.91 billion in FY2025 and $634 million in new corrections appropriations approved in 2025. Yet line-item analysis shows flat food spending at $0.54–$0.55 per meal, a nearly 50% correctional officer vacancy rate, and rising homicides even as millions flow to surveillance and extraction vendors. This page traces the budget's trajectory, its neglect points, and the missing accountability infrastructure.
6,080 data points
Parole & Sentencing
Georgia operates one of the most incarcerated prison systems in the country—locking up residents at 881 per 100,000 people, a rate higher than any country in the world except El Salvador—while parole releases fell 59% from FY2016 to FY2024. Life and virtual-life sentences now account for one in five people in Georgia Department of Corrections custody, even as the General Assembly approved $634 million in new corrections spending in 2025. GPS collections show a parole system that consistently outperforms national supervision completion rates, but which has narrowed release opportunities and left aging, life-sentenced, and domestic-violence-survivor resentencing questions unresolved.
6,723 data points
Reform Models & Programs
Georgia's prison system spends roughly $1.8 billion a year, but national reform evidence shows that rehabilitation outcomes come from structured cognitive-behavioral programs, smaller purpose-built units, and independent oversight—not custody expansion alone. Across 62 GPS research collections, Georgia's programming infrastructure appears largely aspirational against models in California, Texas, and Pennsylvania, even as parole supervision data shows what is possible when accountability and services align.
6,925 data points