Parole Release Questions, Essay Example

The most significant consideration when making a decision about granting parole is the issue of public safety, and whether the offender presents a risk to the public. The criteria for making such a determination includes the nature of the criminal offense (for example, whether or not it was a violent crime, or if it involved the use of a handgun or other weapon). How the offender behaved during incarceration is another consideration; an offender who followed the rules and participated in education, work programs, or other rehabilitative efforts may be a good candidate for parole. A victim impact statement may also be an important consideration, especially in cases of violent crime or when an offender must make restitution after being released.

The victim impact statement is an important component of the parole decision, but it must also be weighed against other factors, and it is necessary to consider the impact for society as well.

Instructional factors are among the most significant considerations, as they offer insight into how well an offender will behave under parole supervision and reintegration into society.

It is necessary to consider as many factors as possible, such as an offender’s family history, criminal record, institutional behavior, parole plan for work and residency, and victim impact, to ensure that offenders receive fair treatment.

It is vital that parolees reintegrate into society, so policies and programs that emphasize job training, education, substance-abuse counseling, and residency assistance are necessary to ensure that parolees have the best chance of avoiding recidivism.