People in Maine have been trying to bring back parole for a few decades...and we're getting closer!
To get put on an email list to be updated about the Clean Slate Bill, go to the Parole For Maine website where you'll find the email:
info@parole4me.org
And here's information about parole at Restore Justice Illinois.
Other important bills in the judiciary and public safety committee involve sealing of criminal records in some instances, to allow individuals to and creating an Ombudsman's office for the Maine Department of Corrections.
While these bills don't address all of the problems for all prisoners, they are a start. If you agree that prisoners have rights and rehabilitation is possible and even probable, let your representatives and senators know.
It is not in dispute: Maine's justice system is in crisis. Many Mainers don't realize how corrupt the system is until they experience it first hand...like I did. I am asking for a new trial after being convicted of stalking.
Maine prosecutors were advised by the Maine Commission for Public Defense Services not to pursue cases if evidence isn't strong enough to convict; but they aren't listening.
I've asked for another attorney to be appointed to me...one experienced in family law matters.
