NCJ Number
180109
Date Published
May 2000
Length
13 pages
Annotation
Intended for use in discussing the video, "Victim Issues for Parole Boards" (NCJ-180108), this booklet outlines the objectives of the video, provides discussion questions, and summarizes key points.
Abstract
The video is designed to help parole board members recognize the concerns of crime victims in the parole process; understand how parole boards can benefit from victim participation in testimony at parole hearings; and determine the balance required among the needs of inmates, victims, and the community. The discussion questions explore the factors parole board members consider in the decision to grant release to an inmate, the advantages and disadvantages of victim participation and input in parole hearings, what would be required to implement a system that permits victim participation in the parole, and what information about parole needs to be better communicated to victims and the public. One of the key points mentioned is that the involvement of victims in the parole system gives the parole board additional information about the offender and about the long-term impact of the offender's actions on the victim. The summary of key points further notes that victim participation can take several forms, including notification of an inmate's eligibility for release; written statements from victims about the impact of the crime and concerns about an inmate's release; and attendance and testimony at parole hearings. Other key points describe the victim services provided by some parole boards, the emotional impact of victim testimony on the objectivity of parole board decisions, and the nature of parole board responsibilities. Lists of 5 resources and 4 references