Ringgold, GA — In an effort to keep violent criminals behind bars, District Attorney Clayton Fuller invited crime victims in the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit to meet with Georgia Parole Board member Joyette Holmes on Thursday in Ringgold.
The meetings, known as Victim Impact Sessions, give survivors the chance to share how crimes have affected their lives and to voice their opinions about the possible parole of offenders. These sessions are coordinated by the Georgia Office of Victim Services in partnership with the District Attorney’s office.
“Violent offenders should not get second chances when their victims never got theirs,” said Fuller. “We are committed to putting victims first—always. Justice doesn’t end at conviction; it demands that we fight to keep dangerous criminals exactly where they belong—behind bars.”
Fuller’s jurisdiction covers Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties. He expressed gratitude to the parole board for taking time to hear directly from victims. “Their presence shows respect for those who have suffered and a strong commitment to public safety,” Fuller added.
During the sessions, victims met privately with Holmes to discuss the crimes and ask questions about how parole decisions are made. Information from these meetings is included in the offender’s parole file and considered by the full parole board before any decision is made.
Holmes praised the courage of the victims. “It’s difficult for many to relive their trauma, but hearing their stories directly impacts our understanding and the board’s decisions,” she said. Holmes met with victims involved in five separate cases during the session.
Victims registered with the Georgia Office of Victim Services receive ongoing support, including notifications about parole hearings and final rulings.