Erie County Legislator Joe Lorigo introduced a resolution in opposition to proposed state legislation (Senate Bill S2144) that would make any individual over the age of 55, who has also served at least 15 years of their sentence, eligible for release from prison.

In some cases, the bill would even extend to those originally serving a life sentence without parole. Legislator Lorigo’s resolution addresses a need for criminal justice reform but urges state lawmakers to seek alternative measures.

Legislator Lorigo said, “Allowing an individual parole eligibility solely based on their age is unacceptable. This measure could result in early release for violent offenders and would be devastating to victims’ families if passed.  This resolution urges the state Legislature to consider other methods of criminal justice reform, such as mandatory minimum sentences and improving the indigent defense system in New York State. In the meantime, this bill should not be up for consideration.”

The proposed legislation is currently in both Senate and Assembly committees.