JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
He's the former five term Hinds County Sheriff and as of Monday morning, Malcolm McMillin became the newest addition to the state parole board, serving as chairman.
"Given the importance in duties of this position, I wanted to choose someone who has an extensive law enforcement background and an understanding of the criminal justice system," said Governor Phil Bryant.
The appointment comes at the hands of Bryant. McMillin will now lead the 5-member board that determines which prison inmates are released on parole. The board even identifies inmate applicants who are seeking a pardon from the governor.
"I think a great deal of consideration goes into every decision that they make and we need to continue that process," said McMillin.
McMillin's appointment to the position comes on the heels of controversy after former governor Haley Barbour handed out a long list of pardons, some of them not recommended by the parole board. With his chairmanship, McMillin says he doesn't plan on making any immediate adjustments to how the board operates or how parole hearings are handled.
"I don't see anything that jumps out at me that needs to be changed," said McMillin.
Under his leadership, Bryant says the full time position will remain as such even though legislation is looking to make it a part-time one. With the appointment made, Bryant says it's time to let the board do its job.
"I will not ask them to release anyone. I will not expect them to have influence from the legislature over releasing someone. I would expect them to look at the facts and circumstances and make that decision without any political influence," said Bryant.
With his history in law enforcement, McMillin says he's confident the board will remain effective and his judgements on potential paroles will be objective.
"I'm perfectly capable of making a decision concerning someone's release as I would someone arrest," said McMillin.
McMillin will begin serving as chairman immediately even though he must still be confirmed by the state senate.
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