Press Release: Governor’s Parole Board Appointment Ends in Chaos
New York – Brandon Stradford’s brief tenure as a commissioner on the New York State Board of Parole ended dramatically this month, highlighting systemic issues within the board’s operations and appointments under Governor Kathy Hochul. Stradford, appointed in June 2023, was frequently late, often fell asleep during training sessions, and missed crucial meetings without explanation.
Internal documents obtained by New York Focus revealed that Stradford was placed on leave just ten weeks after his appointment due to a series of disruptive behaviors, including arriving late for nearly every meeting and focusing poorly during interviews with incarcerated individuals and victims. Despite attempts by board staff to support him with mentorship and mental health resources, Stradford’s performance only worsened, leading to his removal process.
As a parole commissioner, Stradford earned a $170,000 annual salary while the state processed his departure, raising concerns about the efficiency of the board, which has operated with several vacant seats, hindering its ability to function effectively. Hochul’s oversight of the parole board nominations has been marred by blunders, with three out of seven appointments facing challenges similar to Stradford’s.
Stradford’s chaotic appointment process began with a rushed nomination that left state senators ill-informed for their vote. His performance continued to deteriorate, culminating in repeated absences, including one instance when he claimed he was hospitalized with COVID-19 shortly before a pivotal interview session.
Ultimately, Stradford did not attend his removal hearing and was fired on May 29, marking a troubling chapter in New York’s approach to parole oversight and highlighting the pressing need for reform in the Board of Parole’s structure and appointment process.
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Photo credit nysfocus.com
