PRE Cases

PRE offenders committed their crimes prior to July 1, 1984. In addition, they were sentenced to prison. These offenders have indeterminate sentences (RCW 9.95.011(2)). This means the amount of time an offender will spend in prison is not known when they are sentenced. The sentencing judge sets a maximum prison term. The Indeterminate Sentence Review Board (ISRB of Board) sets a minimum term.

The Board decides if a PRE offender can leave prison before the maximum term is up. The Board holds a hearing several months before the parole eligibility date (PERD). This date is figured based on the minimum term and offender earned time. A number of factors are considered before the Board makes a decision. If the decision is for parole, a plan is made to move the offender into the community (parole). That plan may call for the offender spending time in a prison program or work-release before release. If the decision is against parole, time is added, and a new minimum term is set. More about parole ability hearings can be found in the Hearings portion of this web site.

The Board also sets a new minimum term for a revoked parole. Offenders returning from escape and “new” cases also get new minimum terms. The Board is seeing a number of “new” PRE cases coming into prison. This is due to cold cases being solved by DNA match.

The Department of Corrections (DOC) supervises parolees. Parolees must follow the terms of supervision set by the Court, DOC, and the Board. The Board gives the offender a discharge from supervision if the rules are followed for 36 months. Parolees who finish supervision may also earn the Restoration of Civil Rights. Find more information about restoring civil rights.

In its simplest terms, parole helps parolees to build a stake in the community. It helps them find a job, safe housing, and a break with criminal friends. Parole gives careful supervision and clear direction. These can lead to success.