Multiple prison sources have confirmed that one-punch killer Kieran Loveridge drank hand sanitiser and expressed anxiety before his parole decision. Loveridge was hospitalised after the incident. The Kelly family, whose son Thomas was killed by Loveridge in 2012, believe that family victims should be informed about the inmate’s progress and behavior in prison to help them form opinions about potential parole decisions.
The parole authority makes decisions in private meetings about inmates, such as whether to grant or deny parole. In Loveridge’s case, the intention to grant him parole was not communicated to the Kelly family, leaving them feeling blindsided. Corrections Minister Anoulack Chanthivong noted that some information cannot be shared with families for privacy reasons, but has tasked his department with looking into the specific concerns raised by the Kelly family. He emphasized the importance of families understanding what information can and cannot be shared before making parole submissions.
The Kelly family believes that the current parole system needs to be re-designed so that victims’ families have a better understanding of what is happening behind bars. They are invested in the rehabilitation and education of inmates like Loveridge in the hopes that they can become better individuals when reintegrated into the community. The lack of communication and transparency from the parole authority has left the Kelly family feeling uneasy and uncertain about the process and the restrictions that may be imposed on the inmate if granted parole.
In response to the situation, the Corrections Minister has acknowledged the need for families to have more information and support throughout the parole process. He has committed to investigating the specific concerns raised by the Kelly family and ensuring that families are informed about what information can and cannot be shared with them. This transparency and support are critical for families like the Kellys, who are impacted by the decisions made by the parole authority regarding the release of inmates like Loveridge.
The incident involving Loveridge drinking hand sanitiser highlights the stress and anxiety that inmates may experience leading up to parole decisions. It also raises questions about the mental health support and resources available to inmates in prison. The lack of communication and support for victims’ families exacerbates the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the parole process. Reforms to the parole system, as suggested by the Kelly family, may help address these issues and ensure a more transparent and supportive process for all parties involved.
Overall, the parole decision-making process and communication with victims’ families need to be re-evaluated to ensure that all stakeholders are informed and supported throughout the process. Transparency, communication, and mental health support for inmates are critical aspects that need to be addressed to ensure a fair and just parole system. The concerns raised by the Kelly family highlight the need for reform and improvement in how parole decisions are made and how information is shared with families impacted by these decisions.
