CNMI Board of Parole holds first meeting under DOC

The CNMI marks the completion of the first parole board hearing since the executive order was signed by Governor Palacios placing the responsibilities under the Department of Corrections.

Commissioner Anthony Torres said, "This is a new chapter, a new beginning for parole."

The first Board of Parole hearing since CNMI governor Arnold Palacios signed an executive order placing those responsibilities under the Department of Corrections was held this week. The board granted parole to eight inmates this week.

Chris Leon Guerrero, Board of Parole chair, said, "This is a one-time opportunity for any parolees. They are granted parole. Most of the time there's no second chance. And of course, we all know that there's a difference between that side and this side. The board’s tole is number one, the safety of the community. And number two, rehabilitating parolees back to the community."

Torres shared his vision after taking on the new responsibility with goals of rehabilitation and reintegration. He said, "You guys are going to be really getting back into the community. However, and I want you to know that I'm implementing a robust plan and a system for checks and balances so that if you guys make that wrong choice while you're out there, you're coming back fast. Okay. Let it be known that if you need help, reach out to your parole officer, reach out to your providers, reach out to the people who you know will help you in lending a helping hand. Don't keep falling down and going that wrong path. Because once you get, you're going to end up, you're going to come back, right? It's going to be fast, okay? It's going to be fast. And you'll be in prison right away…in order for parole to be effective, there's going to be accountability, plans in place."