OPM: Governor's Task Force

Governor M. Jodi Rell created the Governor’s Sentencing and Parole Review Task Force to conduct a top-to-bottom assessment of all the procedures and processes involved in charging, sentencing and releasing those convicted of crimes in Connecticut. The panel will be jointly chaired by retired Appellate Court Judge Thomas West, Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence executive director Lisa Holden and retired prosecutor Mary Galvin. For a full membership list of the Governor’s Sentencing and Parole Review Task Force see Task Force Members.

The Governor's Sentencing and Parole Review Task Force formed six (6) subcommittees to refine some of their more complicated potential recommendations. For a list of subcommittees and members see Subcommittees.

For more information see Task Force Meetings, Agendas and Minutes or view the Task Force Final Report.

{Photo State Capitol}

{View Final Report of the Governor}

GOVERNOR RELL'S RELATED PUBLIC SAFETY ACTIONS

Governor Rell Announces Appointments to Sentencing and Parole Review Task Force
“Public safety must always be the number one priority of government. I want our citizens to have confidence that Connecticut has the best, toughest and fairest laws on the books and that our policies are as airtight as possible.”

Governor Rell Details Steps to Safeguard Residents, Reduce Public Risk from Violent Offenders
“The security of Connecticut residents, their homes and their families is my top priority. We will ensure that violent offenders who pose a risk to society stay behind bars while continuing to help non-violent offenders make the most effective transition possible back to society.”

Governor Rell Orders Paroles Suspended for Violent Offenders
“I will not allow public safety to be jeopardized because parolees return to a life of crime. Parole is a privilege, not a right: It must be earned and it must be retained. Until we can find a better way to determine who poses a risk to the public if released, we will not add to the ranks of people on parole.”

Governor Rell Announces $1 Million to Improve ‘Megan’s Law’ Database in Next Bond Package
“Equally important, these changes will enhance the ability of law enforcement to track offenders and identify those who fail to meet the reporting requirements.”

Governor Rell Orders Release of Parole Records of Cheshire Murder Suspects
“The only way to fix this process and to ensure in the future that the best and most appropriate decisions are made regarding paroles is to ensure that all information on offenders is available, not only to the Board but also to members of the community.”

Governor Rell Announces Major Crackdown on Parole, Supervision of ‘Burglary II’ Offenders
“I have already appointed a task force to review key steps in our justice system, to be co-chaired by retired Appellate Judge Thomas West, victim advocate Lisa Holden of the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence and a retired state prosecutor. But any steps that can be taken now should be taken now.”

Governor Rell: New Jessica’s Law Toughens Penalties for Predators
“We are sending a message not just throughout the state but throughout the country that child molesters will be dealt with severely in Connecticut.”

Governor Rell Says Budget Will Include Funding & Requirements for Tougher Sex Offender Registry
“Public safety – especially the safety of the youngest and most vulnerable among us – remains at the top of my agenda this year. Making the ‘Megan’s Law’ sex offender registry more comprehensive will make it a more effective tool for parents and law enforcement alike.”

Governor Rell Signs Comprehensive Criminal Justice Reform Package Into Law
“This is legislation that our citizens want and our state needs. The reforms will – first and foremost – make our state safer. I want our citizens to have the confidence that comes from knowing that Connecticut’s laws on violent crime are, indeed, some of the toughest in the nation.”

Governor Rell: Anti-Crime Proposals Will Include Funding for Sharp Boost in DNA Sampling
“One such tool is forensic science – and you don’t have to be a fan of CSI or Law & Order to know how much DNA matching and other technologies have enhanced our ability to identify, track and apprehend criminals, even years after the offenses are committed.”