Parole Board Decision for Thomas Elton Case Study

Parole Board Decision for Robert Thomas Elton

The objective of this study is to examine the possibility of parole for Thomas Robert Elton, an individual presently incarcerated for the commission of crimes and specifically the offenses of Burglary and Murder.

Description

Robert Thomas Elton

DOB -- 05-30-1955

Offense(s) -- Burglary, Murder I, previous property offense

Recommendations of Other authorities -- Psychiatrist Recommends Parole

Facts of the Case

(1) Robert Thomas Elton was sentenced to Life in Prison on July 15, 1976 for the murder of another inmate.

(2) Robert Thomas Elton was originally imprisoned for breaking and entering and received a 2 1/2-year sentence and has previous convictions including property offense and robbery.

(3) Robert Thomas Elton's life sentence for murder commenced October 28, 1977.

(4) The inmate has a history of substance abuse including the use of heroin and cocaine, for which he tested positive during previous release on parole and his parole suspended. The board however, found that his risk of reoffense was low and the suspension cancelled.

(5) Robert Thomas Elton is reported to have appeared before the National Parole Board for Day/Full Parole Review March 2, 1993 and was denied both but was prepared to consider appropriately developed unescorted temporary absence release plan.

(6) On April 4, 1993 Robert Thomas Elton appeared before the National Parole Board for Unescorted Temporary Absences and the board voted to grant the three-day absences for April 15, 16, and 17, 1993, with an approved citizen escort and additional conditions. At that time the Board stated it was not prepared to authorize UTAs to attend community substance abuse meetings. The purpose of Mr. Robert Thomas Elton's UTA was to attend a three-day conference sponsored by the Western Association of Sociology and Anthropology in Vancouver, B.C.

(7) Robert Thomas Elton has demonstrated his willingness to seek counseling on alcohol and drug abuse and demonstrates compliant behavior in other areas as well.(NPB Pre-Release Decision Sheet, 1995)

The following facts are available on this individual relating to his potential release on parole:

(1) Counseling -- Robert Thomas Elton was instructed to seek counseling on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.

(2) Support services -- Robert Thomas Elton has investigated NA and AA meetings in the Westminster area and would attend sessions at 1111 6th Avenue on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings.

(3) Work Preparation and Job Training -- Robert Thomas Elton has plans to attend the Alternatives in Action Center on Commercial Drive in Vancouver to bring his skills up-to-date.

(4) Educational Development -- Robert Thomas Elton desires to register for classes.

(5) Leisure activity -- Robert Thomas Elton has a stained glass hobby which he would pursue along with his counseling and educational activities. (NPB Pre-Release Decision Sheet, 1995)

Summary of Decision by Parole Board

This individual has taken responsibility for his crimes and has worked hard to address his psychological and criminological risk factors as well as his substance and alcohol abuse risk factors. He has parents that are supportive of his reintegration into society and the community in which he will live is supportive. In addition, Robert Thomas Elton has been on Day release since 1994 and has progressed well with this and has had no violations and has remained compliant.

It appears that Robert Thomas Elton's past offenses were alcohol and drug-related offenses therefore there are conditions of Parole that address these risks. (NPB Pre-Release Decision Sheet, 1995)

Conditions of Parole

Specific conditions for parole of this individual include the following stated requirements:

(1) Must seek, obtain, and maintain employment;

(2) Robert Thomas Elton, his residence, and his property are subject to search at any time without notice;

(3) Must.....