Valdosta - The Georgia Parole Board conducted Victim Impact Sessions in Valdosta this week as Board Member Josh Waters met with victims.

“Victim Impact is a part of the consideration process,” says Waters. “We met with victims to provide them with the opportunity to tell the parole board about the crime and how it has affected their lives.”

When making a parole decision, the Board reviews all case information including victim information as well as progress of the offender during incarceration. 

Victim Impact Sessions are a collaboration involving the Georgia Parole Board, the Georgia Office of Victim Services, and the local District Attorney. Waters met individually with victims representing five cases.

Brad Shealy is the District Attorney for the Southern Judicial Circuit. 

“It is important that crime victims continue to have the opportunity to stay involved in the case,” said Shealy. “Victims have the opportunity to send the parole board information, but it is impactful to hear firsthand from them and I applaud the board for providing this platform.”

“The Parole Board sincerely appreciates these victims for spending time with us,” added Waters.

The cases of the offenders involving the victims have been scheduled for consideration by the Parole Board according to their statutory parole eligibility date.

Crime Victims registered with the Georgia Office of Victim Services receive parole status notifications. If you are a crime victim and want to be registered contact [email protected].

Learn more about the State Board of Pardons and Paroles at pap.georgia.gov or contact [email protected].