Many offenders that are subject to the 85% prison mandate are being pushed past the 85% date when being seen by the parole board. Don Phillips, (Chairman of the Parole Board) stated in an article published by the Missouri Cure in August 2019 that “Seriousness of their crime, should not be a reason for parole denial, that was built into the sentence already”. So why is the parole board doing exactly what their Chairman said they shouldn’t do? 
My husband along with many others has been affected by this injustice. After serving 85% of his time he is being held another 2 1/2 years past his 85% date therefore serving one year short of his complete sentence. The reason for this per the parole board is “Consequences surrounding the offense, which is seriousness of the crime”. These are individuals that have completed programs, obtained their GED, remained on honor status, and highly involved with their families. These are individuals that have served their time and are ready to be a productive citizen. 
Why are we continuing to allow this to be acceptable when this is not how the system was meant to be? We need to make a stand and allow these individuals to come home. Their time is served, they have showed that they are able to be productive. If the 85% sentence is imposed then let them free at 85%, stop wasting taxpayer money, stop prolonging the inevitable just because the parole board feels they can. 
As we face the epidemic in Missouri prisons are now being affected and the outbreaks have began. Let’s bring those home that have met their minimum and use that money to help battle the virus that is demolishing our state budget. Instead schools, and other well needed programs are being cut!