Darren Ayotte

The meeting commenced with a roll call and a welcome to public attendees. A primary order of business involved the review and acceptance of the minutes from the December 5th, 2016 meeting. Under old business, the status of proposed regulations was discussed, noting that over 400 public comments were received and the regulations remained under review to determine if a second public comment period would be necessary. Announcements included expressions of support for the family of a recently deceased board member, including plans for a collection and a commemorative plaque, and invitations for staff to join the Paroling Association and New York State's Minorities and Criminal Justice Incorporated organization, which offers training opportunities. The distribution of the upcoming board schedule and vacation schedules was also noted. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter into executive session to discuss updated items, followed by adjournment.

The meeting addressed several key areas including a review of minutes from July 2016. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to board training, specifically concerning parole decision-making, decision writing, and early conditional parole for deportation. Discussions also covered a potential regulatory change, focusing on a confidential draft of parole release regulations and highlighting updates since July 2014. The updates primarily codify existing laws and practices, emphasizing adherence to executive and case law. Key changes include considerations for minor offenders and an expansion of language regarding the denial of release, with a focus on factually specific and individualized reasons.

The Board of Parole held a regular business meeting to discuss various topics. These included a training on the Structured Decision-Making Framework (SDMF), a Coffee and Conversation event at Bedford Hills hosted by Hour Children, the introduction of new Commissioners, and correspondence from a formerly incarcerated individual. The Board was also invited to visit the Marcus Garvey Senior Housing complex. Additionally, the meeting covered delinquent time case reviews and an executive session to discuss litigation.

The Board of Parole convened for a regular business meeting, addressing old and new business items. Discussions included the Association of Paroling Authorities International Conference, a roundtable discussion presented by the Fortune Society, and the implementation of a structured decision-making framework with the National Institute of Corrections. The Board voted to post regulations concerning minor offenders for a public comment period. Additionally, the Board addressed correspondence, announcements, and invitations, including invitations from Hour Children and the Osbourne Association. The meeting adjourned to enter Executive Session to discuss litigation with Counsel and conduct Full Board Case Reviews. The Board also reviewed Delinquent Time Cases.

The meeting included discussions on board training, with plans for a session on board actions and potential future sessions on sex offenders and immigration. The board also addressed the 2015 board business meetings, making all meetings mandatory with formal excusal requests. Changes to the meeting schedule were discussed, including moving the September meeting due to Rosh Hashanah and potentially moving the December meeting to November. Additionally, the board reviewed new business cards and the 2015-2016 budget, which is expected to be higher due to mandatory raises. An update from the accreditation committee was also presented, focusing on compliance with standards and past meetings with agencies.