The state has refused to release data on race and ethnicity
In California, individuals who are incarcerated in California state prison after being convicted of a felony offense may be required to request parole (supervised release from prison) from the California Board of Parole Hearings. The Board will consider a number of factors when determining suitability for parole, including the circumstances of the crime, the individual’s level of remorse, and their behavior while in prison. The Board is comprised of 17 members who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the California State Senate.
Recently, a team of researchers sought access to data on race and ethnicity as it relates to parole suitability decisions. As a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles, CA can explain, their plan was to develop a platform that analyzes and detects any patterns of bias in these decisions. This program cannot be built without access to this data.
Previous research by this group of academics has revealed that race and other illegal factors influenced parole decisions for individuals who were sentenced to life without the possibility of parole as juveniles. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) offered to provide the data on parole suitability decisions only if this research was stopped.
Too often, race and ethnicity play a role in California’s criminal justice system. Black Californians are incarcerated at a much higher rate than white Californians: 3,036 per 100,000 people versus 453 per 100,000 people. Native American and Latinx people are also incarcerated at much higher rates: at 996 and 757 per 100,000 people, respectively. These numbers reflect broader inequalities within our society. A computer modeling system that detected bias in parole suitability decisions could be an important tool in reducing this form of bias.
At the Chambers Law Firm, we are dedicated to representing all of our clients to the best of our abilities. We are aggressive advocates for each of our clients. Through thorough investigation into the facts of each case, we work to develop factual and legal defenses to help our clients achieve the best possible outcome. In some cases, this may mean showing that racial bias played a role in our client being stopped, arrested, searched, charged or otherwise becoming involved in the criminal justice system.
As a former prosecutor, Attorney Dan E. Chambers understands how the system works. He is devoted to helping each of his clients get the most favorable result for their case. To learn more or to schedule a free initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles, CA, contact our office today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com.
