Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) — Acknowledging Leigh Gwathney as a dependable leader dedicated to public safety, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is urging Governor Kay Ivey to re-appoint her as Chair of the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles.
Marshall praised Gwathney’s prosecutorial background and resolute position against the release of violent criminals in a statement signed by 76 law enforcement officers from throughout the state.
Marshall said that re-appointing Leigh Gwathney is about more than just leadership; it’s about defending Alabama families against violent offenders and elevating the voices of victims who are all too frequently ignored.
The letter emphasizes that violent offenders make up about 85% of Alabama’s jail population. It praises Gwathney for refusing to give in to pressure to issue paroles, opting instead to put community safety first and protect victims’ rights.
Marshall underlined that Gwathney was a key hire during the state’s 2019 parole reforms and has subsequently won the confidence of victims, prosecutors, and law enforcement. Governor Ivey is urged in the proposal to maintain Gwathney in her top position in order to reinforce the state’s commitment to parole reform.
The Alabama Attorney General’s website offers a complete copy of the letter of support.
