The big news in law this week is former football player O.J. Simpson’s parole hearing that will be held on Thursday, July 20, 2017. Simpson’s 33-year prison term in Nevada was for a charge of armed robbery and assault with a weapon, according to the Chicago Tribune. http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/ct-oj-simpson-parole-20170717-story.html
In Nevada, the law is clear on what must be considered at a parole hearing. Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 213.1099(2) states that:
“In determining whether to release a prisoner on parole, the Board shall consider:
(a) Whether there is a reasonable probability that the prisoner will live and remain at liberty without violating the laws;
(b) Whether the release is incompatible with the welfare of society;
(c) The seriousness of the offense and the history of criminal conduct of the prisoner;
(d) The standards adopted pursuant to NRS 213.10885 and the recommendation, if any, of the Chief; and
(e) Any documents or testimony submitted by a victim ….”
Meetings to consider prisoners for parole must be open to the public, but the State Board of Parole Commissioners can deliberate in private after the public meeting. Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 213.131(3), (5). Also, Simpson, or a representative, is allowed to speak at the meeting. Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 213.131(10).
There is no saying what will happen at the parole hearing, but the Chicago Tribune and other news outlets predict that Simpson has a good chance of being released from prison.