Local crime victims are being given a stronger voice in the parole process through a collaborative initiative involving the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles, the Georgia Office of Victim Services, and the Office of Ogeechee Judicial Circuit District Attorney Robert Busbee.
On Friday April 25, victims of crimes met directly with Parole Board Member Wayne Bennett during a Victim Impact Session in Statesboro. These sessions provide victims with a meaningful opportunity to stay engaged in their cases long after the court’s judgment has been rendered.
District Attorney Robert Busbee emphasized the lasting impact of crime on victims and the importance of continued engagement in the justice system.
“For victims who continue to be impacted by violent crime long after the court’s judgment, these meetings allow them to remain involved in the case,” said District Attorney Busbee. “I appreciate the Parole Board’s commitment to providing this opportunity and ensuring that victims’ voices are heard.”
Parole Board Member Wayne Bennett, who previously served as Glynn County Sheriff, also shared his perspective on the Board’s commitment to victim services.
“As a sheriff for twenty years, your involvement with victims is often limited after the crime is solved and the court’s decision is made,” said Bennett. “Since joining the Parole Board, I’ve seen firsthand the many post-conviction services available to victims. We are committed to gathering victim input before making parole decisions.”
Victim Impact Sessions allow crime victims to meet one-on-one with a Parole Board Member, representatives from the Georgia Office of Victim Services, and staff from the Board’s Pre-Release Considerations Division. Information shared during these meetings becomes part of the offender’s official case file and is reviewed by the entire Parole Board prior to a parole decision.
Since 2022, more than 400 crime victims across Georgia have participated in Victim Impact Sessions, helping ensure that their voices remain a vital part of the justice process.
Victims seeking more information or wishing to participate in an upcoming session should contact the Georgia Office of Victim Services.
