Hawaii Paroling Authority Market Research Report

Background

The Hawaii Paroling Authority (HPA) is an independent quasi-judicial body established to oversee parole decisions within the state of Hawaii. It operates under the Department of Public Safety, providing administrative hearings to determine parole eligibility and conditions for individuals incarcerated in Hawaii's correctional facilities. The HPA's mission is to evaluate and grant parole when there is reasonable probability that the prisoner will live and remain at liberty without violating the law, ensuring that the release is compatible with the welfare and safety of the public.

Key Strategic Focus

The HPA's strategic focus includes:

• Parole Evaluation and Decision-Making: Conducting hearings to establish minimum terms of imprisonment and determining parole eligibility based on individual cases.

• Reentry Support: Utilizing agency and community resources to facilitate the reintegration of parolees into society, aiming to reduce recidivism and promote public safety.

• Policy Development: Formulating policies and procedures to manage the inmate population effectively, in collaboration with other state agencies.

Financials and Funding

As a state agency, the HPA's funding is allocated through the state budget process. Specific financial details, including total funds raised and recent funding rounds, are not publicly disclosed. The capital is primarily utilized for operational expenses, including personnel salaries, facility maintenance, and program development aimed at supporting parolees' successful reintegration into society.

Pipeline Development

The HPA does not engage in product development or clinical trials. Its focus is on the parole process, including setting minimum terms of imprisonment, granting or denying parole, and overseeing parole supervision. The agency continually reviews and updates its policies and procedures to enhance the effectiveness of parole decisions and support services.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The HPA employs various technological platforms to support its operations, including:

• Case Management Systems: Utilized to track parolee information, hearing schedules, and case histories.

• Data Analysis Tools: Employed to assess recidivism rates and the effectiveness of parole decisions.

• Communication Platforms: Used for coordinating with other state agencies, correctional facilities, and community organizations involved in the parole process.

Leadership Team

The HPA is governed by a five-member board appointed by the Governor of Hawaii. As of August 2024, the board includes:

• Gene DeMello Jr.: Appointed as the new chairperson effective August 1, 2024. DeMello has a background in corrections and parole, having served as a U.S. Probation Officer and Assistant Deputy Chief with the U.S. Probation Office before retiring in 2020.

• Louis Michael Ching: Appointed as a board member, bringing extensive experience as an attorney and court-appointed representative for indigent individuals.

• Clayton Hee: Former State Senator and Chair of the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Labor, appointed in 2019.

• Cheryl Inouye: Appointed in 2019, with a background in human development and social work.

• Max Otani: Former Deputy Director for Corrections with the Department of Public Safety, appointed in 2019.

Leadership Changes

In August 2024, Governor Josh Green appointed Gene DeMello Jr. as the new chairperson of the HPA, succeeding Edmund "Fred" Hyun, who retired on July 31, 2024, after serving two terms as chair.

Competitor Profile

As a state agency, the HPA does not have direct competitors in the traditional sense. However, it collaborates with various entities within the criminal justice system, including:

• Department of Public Safety (DPS): Oversees correctional facilities and law enforcement agencies in Hawaii.

• Department of the Attorney General: Provides legal counsel and representation for the state.

• Office of the Public Defender: Represents individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford private counsel.

• County Prosecuting Attorneys: Responsible for prosecuting criminal cases at the county level.

• Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission: Monitors and reviews the correctional system, including parole processes.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The HPA collaborates with various state and county agencies to enhance the parole process and support services for parolees. Notable collaborations include:

• Interagency Council on Intermediate Sanctions: A partnership between multiple state agencies aimed at reducing recidivism and preventing future victimization by adult offenders.

• Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission: Provides oversight and recommendations for the correctional system, including parole processes.

Operational Insights

The HPA operates within the framework of Hawaii's criminal justice system, focusing on parole decisions and the supervision of parolees. Its primary operational considerations include:

• Parole Hearings: Conducting hearings to determine parole eligibility and conditions.

• Reentry Programs: Collaborating with community organizations to provide support services for parolees.

• Policy Development: Formulating and implementing policies to manage the inmate population and parole processes effectively.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The HPA continues to focus on enhancing the parole process by:

• Implementing Evidence-Based Practices: Utilizing research-supported strategies to reduce recidivism.

• Expanding Reentry Services: Collaborating with community organizations to provide comprehensive support for parolees.

• Policy Review and Development: Regularly reviewing and updating policies to improve the effectiveness of parole decisions and support services.

Contact Information

• Official Website: Hawaii Paroling Authority

• Social Media: Facebook

• Headquarters Location: 1797 Wili Pa Loop, Suite 2, Wailuku, HI 96793