Press Release: Controversial Parole Granted for Habitual Offender
Date: May 13, 2023
Edward Simpson, a habitual offender sentenced to two life sentences for burglary, has been granted parole, raising concerns among victims and law enforcement. Simpson’s latest hearing took place in January, culminating in his approved release. Initially, he will serve six months in a lower-security setting.
Simpson’s criminal history dates back to 1990 when he received a ten-year sentence for unarmed robbery. He was granted parole the following year, only to be arrested again for unarmed robbery shortly thereafter. His violent offenses peaked on November 16, 1991, when he broke into a home while a woman and her young daughter were present. After physically assaulting the woman and ransacking her belongings, he fled the scene but attempted to break into her apartment just two days later.
Over the years, Simpson faced multiple arrests for various crimes, leading to another significant conviction in 2000 when he was sentenced to life in prison. Since then, he has become eligible for parole four times during his 28 years of incarceration. This time, he successfully pleaded to the parole board, citing 33 months of sobriety along with consistent self-improvement, including mental health treatments and relapse prevention.
While Simpson’s mother advocated for his release, Plymouth District Assistant District Attorney Karen Palumbo vehemently opposed it, highlighting the risks associated with his release. Ultimately, the parole board concluded that Simpson’s rehabilitation warranted a second chance, though the decision wasn’t unanimous, with one member recommending a review in two years.
The decision has reignited discussions about the balance between rehabilitation and public safety in the parole process.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
