Is Philip Chism’s Sentence Unlawful? Lawyers Raise New Questions In Appeal Before Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
Attorneys argue: “Because the non-homicide sentences govern when [Chism] is eligible for parole, he can’t see the Parole Board for 40 years where it would be 30 years at most for any juvenile sentenced to first-degree murder.”
GOVERNING IN DARKNESS: Part 3
Who are the Massachusetts governor’s councilors? What professional baggage do they bring to the body? And can this motley crew stumble toward reform?
GOVERNING IN DARKNESS: Part 2
With its hollow rules, ethical dilemmas, and reluctance to address a lack of transparency and other problems, the Governor’s Council has no clothes
GOVERNING IN DARKNESS: Part 1
For centuries, critics have questioned whether the Governor’s Council, rife with conflict, should exist. In 2024, is the body obsolete?
GRADING THE PAROLE BOARD
The Massachusetts Parole Board still faces big challenges despite making some improvements this past year. Its final member was approved this week, but is the body equipped to operate efficiently?
A “NEW HOPE”
What the Mattis decision means for parole in Massachusetts—unprecedented opportunities for release from life sentences, updated trainings for attorneys, and a big shift in the system
LAWMAKERS QUESTION MASS PAROLE PROCESS. CAN THEY IMPROVE THE SYSTEM?
Concerned about the “onerous conditions of parole” and longstanding cruel procedures, legislators and reform advocates push major legislative and cultural changes.
DANCING ON BANANA PEELS
Life On Lifetime Parole In Massachusetts “I am now in the same predicament as I was when I first got out of prison.” Khalid Mustafa attempted what many considered unthinkable: he tried to sue the Massachusetts Parole Board. Specifically, Mustafa took legal action against the body for decisions under former Chair Gloriann Moroney. It was […]
UNLOCKING HIGHER ED
Experts Make The Case For More College Behind Bars College classes cost less than half of what Mass pays to incarcerate people. So why aren’t we educating more prisoners? “Knowledge of the power structure that runs society has made the biggest difference in my life.” John Yang was released from MCI Concord in 2020, and […]