National Parole Board

 

Our speaker on January 7 was from the National Parole Board, Olf Ottho. Olf practiced law in Ladner for 30 years before joining the Parole Board.  He has served two terms on the board. He is a former member of the Rotary Club of Ladner.

 

Parole does not mean that offenders are completely free, without supervision. It does mean that they have an opportunity, under the supervision and assistance of a parole officer, to become contributing members of society, providing they abide by the conditions of their release. If the conditions of parole are not met, the Board has the power to revoke the parole and return the offender to prison.

 

Olf stressed that most offenders are serving a fixed length sentence. This means they will eventually be released back into the community. Parole helps offenders re-integrate into the community through a gradual, controlled, and supported release with conditions.

 

Board members consider all relevant information in making a decision. This can include information from police, courts, crown attorneys, mental health professionals, correctional authorities, private agencies, and victims.

 

Ulf outlined the special manner in dealing with Aboriginal offenders.  Healing circles are held to discuss the release conditions.   He talked about the low numbers of offenders that commit new crimes while on parole according to the National Parole Board.

 

Ulf answered questions about how victims are treated.  He feels their concerns are taken into consideration in balance with the offender.  He answered questions about pedophiles and their treatment.

 

Chris Offer thanked Ulf on behalf of the club. He thanked him for serving the community on the Parole Board and facing the many difficulty decisions the board makes.