The pros and cons of bringing back Virginia's parole system

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ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - A new bipartisan commission established by Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe will consider reforms to Virginia's criminal justice system.

That directive includes taking a look at bringing back Virginia's parole system. As it stands now, offenders are required to serve at least 85 percent of their sentences. But incarceration costs and overcrowded prisons led McAuliffe to establish the commission.

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"They deserve that second chance and the only way they'll get that second chance is if there's a door of opportunity available for them," said Shawn Hunter, who works to connect ex-offenders and employers in the Roanoke Valley.

Hunter believes bringing parole back to Virginia would give offenders more motivation to work on their education while in prison, making them more employable after their release.

"The only way they would be able to ascertain discretionary parole is to have a GED or go and take a skill or trade so when they come back out they will be more marketable and will be able to find employment easily," Hunter said.

In 1995, then Governor George Allen passed his plan to eliminate parole in Virginia. Republicans argue it was the right move and should not be changed.

"We've had a decline in crime from 1994 until today," said Del. Terry Austin (R-Buchanan), who said at this point he would vote against changing the system. "I think when someone's sentenced they should serve their sentence."

Austin also points out to dropping recidivism rates in the Commonwealth.

While many have been quick to pick sides, Attorney General Mark Herring is taking a wait and see approach with the bipartisan committee.

"It's all important that we take a look at (parole) and see what's going to work best for Virginia," he said.

McAuliffe believes parole should only apply to non-violent offenders. The commission will send it's recommendations to the governor in November.