The purpose of parole is to determine of the best interest of society would be served by allowing an offender to serve a portion of his or her sentence in the community. It is important to understand, however, that the offender will not be released on parole until it has been determined by the Board of Parole that they are fit for supervised release. 

The testimony of the victim is an important contribution to the Board of Parole's decision making process before parole is granted or denied. 

The Board of Parole is very concerned about the issue of public safety. All offenders, except those who are sentenced to death or life without parole, have a release date. On the day of release, without parole, the offender is released back into society without any controls or supervision. If paroled, that offender would have to comply with all the rules and orders of parole or face the possibility of return to prison and additional prison time.

Frequently Asked Questions

*How Can I Be Notified of an Upcoming Parole Hearing?
You may call toll-free 1-877-NE-4-VINE (1-877-634-8463) to request notification OR submit a written request for notification with the Department of Correctional Services, Victim/Witness Coordinator at P.O. Box 94661, Lincoln, Nebraska, 68509.   Website

*Do I Have the Right to Attend a Parole Hearing?
Yes. Parole Hearings are open to the public, and anyone who is interested is welcome to attend. You may also present information to the Board in the form of a written statement if you are unable to attend. Your statement will be deemed confidential at your request. 

*Do I Need to Notify Anyone of My Intentions to Attend a Parole Hearing?
No, but it would be helpful to contact the office of the Board of Parole at (402) 471-2156 and advise of your intentions. 

*Where Will the Hearing be Held?
Hearings are generally held at the institution where the inmate is housed. You can call the Parole Board Office at (402) 471-2156 or Click Here (LINK to Monthly Public Hearing Schedule) to find out the time and location of a scheduled Hearing. 

*What Happens at a Parole Hearing?
The offender will be given a chance to speak with the Board about his or her progress throughout the prison term. If you wish to testify, your testimony will be heard at this time. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Board will decide by majority vote whether or not to parole the offender. 

*Will the Offender be able to see me at the Hearing?
Yes, the offender will be able to see you; however, the staff at the institution where the hearing is being held will make sure the opposition and support are separated. Unwanted contact and communication is not permitted.

*Will I Know on the Day of the Hearing if the Offender is Paroled or not?
Yes, you will know at the close of the hearing what decision has been made.

*If the Offender is Paroled, is there anything the Board can do to keep the Offender away from me?
Yes, there is. The Board can impose a special condition of parole which will require the offender to have no contact with the victim while on parole.