Stephen Calls For Repeal Of Law That Lets Violent Sexual Predators To Leave Prison Early

Press Release

Lynch Says That Releasing Prisoners Makes New Hampshire "Safer"

John Stephen, Republican nominee for Governor, today called for an immediate repeal of a new law (SB 500) that allows for the early parole of violent offenders, including sexual predators. Stephen, a former prosecutor for both Hillsborough County and the Attorney General's Office who prosecuted a number of sexual offenses, agreed with Adult Parole Board member Mark Furlone, who was quoted in yesterday's Concord Monitor as telling a violent parolee that "it's disgusting we have to let you out" as a result of the new legislation.

"As a former prosecutor who put sexual predators behind bars, I am appalled that anyone, regardless of party, would think that this is a good idea to let violent criminals out of prison early, as Governor Lynch does," Stephen said. "We need an immediate repeal of this misguided law that threatens the safety our families and our children. As Governor, I will not stand for this assault on the protection of our communities."

In today's New Hampshire Union Leader, a spokesman for Lynch said that the law "is a good thing for New Hampshire because it's going to make New Hampshire safer." The new law allows early parole for prisoners nine months before they reach their maximum sentence.

"I don't know how Governor Lynch can possibly think that letting violent criminals, including child rapists and drug dealers, out of prison early can possibly make New Hampshire safer," Stephen added. "This law makes a mockery of the idea of Truth In Sentencing and also provides and incentive for prisoners to avoid treatment behind prison walls. This law that Governor Lynch signed is a slap in the face to the victims of these crimes and their families."

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