What are the consequences of a parole violation?

Inmates who are paroled from prison must serve a mandatory probationary period. They are required to report to a probation officer, refrain from certain activities and basically lead a crime free existence. If they violate any part of their parole, their parole may be revoked and they may be sent back to prison to serve their original sentences.

Parole Eligibility

Generally a parole is granted under the following circumstances:

1) the defendant has complied with all of the prison’s rules and regulations;
2) the parole does not in any way minimize the seriousness of the crime; and 
3) the defendant's parole will not pose a threat to the public.

The parole process involves a review of the case by a parole commission who provides a recommendation to a hearing examiner. The hearing examiner will subsequently make a determination. If the parole is granted, a release plan will be provided for the parolee. Under the plan, the parolee must show that he or she has somewhere to live and must show proof of a valid job offer of legitimate source of income. The parolee will be assigned a parole officer who will supervise him or her periodically.

Parole Violation

A parolee violates parole when the parolee does not follow the prescribed rules and restrictions.  The most common parole violations include:

• a parolee's failure to report to the parole officer
• a failure to inform the parole office of any change of address
• committing another crime
• possessing a firearm
• using controlled substances
• leaving the state without permission

Any of these violations may cause the parole to be revoked and have the parolee sent back to prison to finish out his or her sentence.

Consult with an experienced attorney to fully discuss parole violation consequences.