Jackson, MS – Right On Crime commends Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves and state legislators for their continued commitment to parole eligibility and public safety as S.B. 2448 was signed into law today. Right On Crime commends the data-driven and thoughtful policies of S.B. 2448.
Statement from Mississippi Right On Crime Director Scott Peyton:
“Gov. Reeves and Mississippi’s elected leaders supporting the policies of S.B. 2448 understand that a successful criminal justice system is designed to not only punish, but also provide a chance for rehabilitation and redemption,” says Scott Peyton, Mississippi Director of Right On Crime. “Parole works in Mississippi, and the data backs it up. Signing S.B. 2488 into law allows thousands of Mississippians an opportunity to serve their time and contribute to the communities where they live, raise families, and work.”
Facts from Peyton’s Opinion 4/24 Article in the Magnolia Tribune:
- Between 2009 and 2019, 37 states experienced reductions in both crime and imprisonment, with crime falling faster in states that reduced imprisonment than in states that increased imprisonment.
- Since Mississippi’s current parole law has been in effect, 98% of people made newly eligible for parole did not return to prison on a new sentence within the first 24 months following release.
- Nearly 90% of Mississippi voters, including 87% of Republican voters, support allowing people to earn their way home through the parole process.
- Taxpayers across Mississippi currently spend more than $400 million on the prison system.
- “Policies like parole allow Mississippi to rein in spending and focus limited resources on other investments that promote public safety and economic development for the state,” writes Peyton.
For interview requests with Peyton, please contact Right On Crime Communications at 512-300-3767.