Governor Kathy Hochul has been making efforts to undo some of New York state’s worst criminal justice policies, but one area that seems to have been overlooked is the Parole Board. Despite the recent confirmation of four new board members by the Senate, Hochul has yet to make a significant impact on the board, which has been criticized for its leniency towards criminals.
The Parole Board, which has been responsible for releasing at least 43 cop-killers in the past eight years, has come under scrutiny for its decisions. One recent case involved the potential release of David McClary, the gang member convicted of assassinating Police Officer Edward Byrne in 1988. The board’s decision to delay his release until after the Democratic mayoral primary raised suspicions of political motives.
The new appointees to the Parole Board, including left-leaning individuals such as former Assemblyman Danny O’Donnell, nonprofit board member Darlene Grant Bruce, defense attorney Elizabeth Kase, and former police commissioner José Gomérez, do not seem likely to bring significant change to the board’s decisions.
Despite Hochul’s attempts to make changes, the Senate’s reluctance to confirm tough-on-crime nominees has hindered progress in reforming the Parole Board. Additionally, recent legislative changes, such as the “Less is More” law signed by Hochul in 2021, have made it easier for parole violators to avoid returning to prison.
Overall, Hochul’s inability to challenge the progressive faction in the Senate on criminal justice issues suggests a lack of commitment to law and order. As a result, it is likely that more criminals, including cop-killers, will be released on parole unless there is a shift in public demand for tougher policies. It is essential for New York voters to prioritize candidates who prioritize public safety and support law enforcement.
