San Diego City Wire

Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) took a firm stance against Governor Gavin Newsom's appointees to the Board of Parole Hearings, expressing his concerns on the Senate Floor. Jones criticized the current Board of Parole 'Commissioners' for their actions, stating, “Today’s Board of Parole ‘Commissioners’ are obsessed with freeing up bed space, closing prisons, and releasing killers, rapists, and torturers.” He highlighted the lack of faith crime victims and their families have in the board, citing reports of censorship of victim testimonies and submissions.

In a letter expressing opposition to Newsom's appointments, the Crime Victims Alliance raised issues regarding the interference in the decision-making process of parole suitability by the Board of Parole Hearings' administration. The letter stated, “We are gravely concerned with the blatant interference of the Board of Parole Hearings’ administration limiting the information presented to the Commissioners that is necessary to make their decisions in determining parole suitability." The Alliance also pointed out the lack of opposition from Board Commissioners against this injustice and highlighted their perceived allegiance to the Executive Officer over the Governor.

Despite these objections, the Senate proceeded to confirm the appointments of Robert A. Barton, Kevin Chappell, Gilbert R. Infante, Kathleen O’Meara, Catherine Purcell, and Neil Schneider to the Board of Parole Hearings. Leader Jones expressed disappointment in the Senate's decision, stating, “unfortunately, the Senate today refused to stand up to the governor and instead rubber stamped his horrible appointees who frequently allow murders and other violent criminals out of prison early.”

The call for an overhaul at the Board of Parole Hearings continues, with voices like Leader Jones and the Crime Victims Alliance advocating for a justice process that prioritizes the rights and safety of victims.