What is a 'parole board'?

A 'parole board' is primarily responsible for reviewing parole applications made by inmates who are eligible for parole. This board evaluates the inmate's behavior while incarcerated, their rehabilitation progress, and their risk to public safety. Following a thorough review, the board decides whether to grant or deny parole based on a variety of factors, including the nature of the original offense, the inmate's conduct while in prison, and the circumstances surrounding their release. This crucial function of the parole board plays a significant role in the transition of offenders back into society, ensuring that the process aligns with public safety interests and supports the rehabilitation of individuals.

Understanding the specific functions of a parole board highlights its importance in the criminal justice system, as it directly influences the lives of inmates and the community by determining who is ready for reintegration into society. This emphasizes the role of the board in balancing the goals of punishment and rehabilitation within the corrections system.