Youngkin Appoints New Parole Board Members After Democrats Reject Initial Picks

By WMAL.com

Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the appointment of four new members to the Virginia Parole Board after democrat state legislators politicized, and ultimately torpedoed, the governor’s initial picks last month.

In what was a highly divisive legislative session, the democrat-controlled State Senate thwarted the appointment of Youngkin’s first selections to the Parole Board, including Charmen Williams, Cheryl Nici-O’Connell, Charles Partin and Tracy Banks. The vote was completely down party line with a final of 21-19 in favor of rejecting the nominees.

On Wednesday, the Governor’s office issued a press release announcing the appointment of four new members to the Parole Board – Steven Buck, Toby Vick, Michelle Dermyer and Samuel Boone Jr.

“After the Democrats attempted to cover up a scandal of their own creation and keep individuals from receiving parole, it’s time to reform the Parole Board again and put the scandals behind us,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This group of individuals will restore common sense, reform the Parole Board, and stand up for victims’ rights. In prioritizing public safety, we are ensuring that all Virginians feel safe and secure in their communities. We need to put an end to the chaos and reform the Parole Board.”

Youngkin made the appointment of new Parole Board members a central theme on his campaign after accusing the democrat-controlled Parole Board of violating the law during Governor Northam’s tenure.