Blog
Statement from Virginia Parole Board About Temporary Hold on Release of Vincent Martin
- By: VACP
- On: 05/11/2020 15:34:46
- In: Virginia News
The parole release of Vincent Martin, convicted of the 1979 capital murder of Richmond Police Officer Michael P. Connors, has been temporarily held for a period of no more than 30 days, pending the conclusion of the OSIG investigation.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASERichmond – The Parole Board has been made aware that the Office of the State Inspector General (OSIG) is conducting an administrative investigation into the Board's policies and procedures as they pertain to the recent parole grant of Vincent Martin. In an effort to ensure due diligence, as the new Chair of the Virginia Parole Board, I believe it is prudent to place a temporary hold on Vincent Martin's release, for a period not to exceed 30 days, pending the conclusion of this investigation.
Per the Office of the State Inspector General, “The focus of the administrative investigation will be on compliance with Code, regs, policies and procedures, etc. in the decision-making process. OSIG will not be evaluating the ultimate decisions made by the Parole Board.” Pursuant to § 53.1-136 (2)(a) Powers and duties of Board, the final decision rests solely with the Parole Board.
This has been a difficult decision and was not made lightly; however, it is important to afford OSIG an opportunity to review the matters before them.
The Board remains confident in its decision to grant parole to Mr. Martin and looks forward to the conclusion of this administrative investigation.
