Senator Helming Urges Public to Oppose the Proposed Parole Board Rule Change

The New York State Board of Parole recently announced a proposed rule change that would dramatically alter the way the Board considers parole in the case of offenders who committed violent crimes as minors.  Under the new rule, the Board would place greater weight on the offenders' age and 'brain development' at the time the crime was committed rather than the danger they pose to the community, the seriousness of their crimes, or the impact on victims.  

Think about what this means in practice.  Individuals serving life sentences for the most heinous felonies, including murder and predatory sexual assault, committed while under the age of 18, would be eligible for special parole considerations. This includes Chad Campbell, who was 14 years old when he stabbed to death his 15-year-old classmate, Cindy Lewis, and Curtis Rizzo, the 17-month-old child she was babysitting (Spectrum News). Under this proposed rule change, offenders like Campbell would receive special consideration in contemplation for their release simply because of their age at the time of the crime.

Prioritizing developmental considerations over public safety and victims’ rights in such extreme cases is unacceptable.  It is also unacceptable that the members of the Board of Parole have the unilateral authority to make such a sweeping and dangerous change.  The Board of Parole should be focused on prioritizing public safety, not driving our state further down a path that prioritizes convicted violent felons over law-abiding citizens.  

If you are concerned about this proposed rule change, I strongly encourage you to share your opposition.  Register your concerns by emailing rules@doccs.ny.gov before October 12, 2025. 

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