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Parole at the State Level

Web Link:  http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/17/opinion/new-yorks-broken-parole-system.html?_r=0

This editorial discusses challenges with New York's Parole Board and suggestions for reform.

1. What does this editorial identify as problems within the New York Parole Board?
2. What suggestions and justifications are offered to remedy these obstacles?

The Granting of Parole in State Systems
Video Link:  http://www.localnews8.com/news/parole-hearing-stirs-up-controversy-for-city-council-member/35341436

This local news story discusses the ways in which parole hearings can be controversial and political.

1. Why was this parole hearing controversial?
2. What does this story demonstrate about the complexities in parole hearings and the public view of parolees?

Parole as the Correctional Release Valve for Prisons
Video Link:  http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/government_programs-july-dec09-prisons_08-19/

This PBS video discusses the implications of California's prison overcrowding, including on the probation system.

1. How can and will probation and parole serve as a release valve for California’s overcrowded prisons?
2. What are obstacles with parole serving as a release valve?
3. How can parole actually contribute to overcrowding via technical violations?

The Role of Institutional Parole Officers
Audio Link:  http://www.npr.org/player/v2/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=316460520&m=316460521

This NPR story discusses how people sentenced to life in prison adjust to parole and community supervision.

1. What range of emotions do lifers experience as they prepare for release and community supervision?
2. What does this story reveal about early release and transitions into society?