North Country Leader

Senator Mark Walczyk has voiced strong opposition to a series of legislative proposals that he argues compromise public safety for the benefit of incarcerated individuals. On National Crime Victims' Rights Week, Walczyk criticized the Earned Time Act (S.342) and the Fair and Timely Parole bill (S.159), warning that such initiatives prioritize the rights of prisoners over those of crime victims and the broader community.

The Earned Time Act seeks to offer time allowances to prisoners for good behavior and participation in rehabilitative programs. Walczyk expressed concern that this could lead to the early release of potentially dangerous individuals. "This legislation sends the wrong message – it tells convicts that their rights and comfort outweigh the safety of law-abiding citizens," he stated.

The Fair and Timely Parole bill proposes changes that would focus less on public safety when granting parole. It would require the Parole Board to release prisoners unless there is clear evidence of a risk of reoffending. Walczyk said, "We must remember that the priority of the Parole Board should be the safety of the community. This bill might lead to the release of individuals who pose a significant risk to society, further endangering New Yorkers."

Highlighting recidivism statistics, Walczyk noted that 82 percent of inmates reoffend within a decade. He cautioned that lenient parole guidelines could exacerbate this issue. "We must prioritize the safety of our communities and the protection of crime victims over the premature release of prisoners who have demonstrated a pattern of re-offending," he asserted.

While some argue the legislation could save the state between $60,000 and $240,000 per released inmate, Walczyk disputed these claims, stating the potential for increased crime could lead to higher law enforcement and legal costs. "The potential financial savings pale in comparison to the risks we would impose on our communities and the potential costs tied to rising crime," Walczyk explained.

Walczyk also criticized New York Governor Kathy Hochul's early parole policies, calling them "reckless" and indicating they could significantly alter parole standards in a way that undermines public safety. He emphasized the need for order, suggesting the rehiring of terminated officers, the suspension of the HALT Act, and securing facilities against dangerous drugs, rather than pursuing early releases. He concluded, "It is time for us to put the interests of victims first and take a strong stand against proposals that jeopardize public safety."