Montgomery, Ala. (WDNews) – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is calling on Governor Kay Ivey to reappoint Leigh Gwathney as Chair of the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles, praising her as a steady leader committed to public safety.
In a letter signed by 76 law enforcement officials across the state, Marshall applauded Gwathney’s prosecutorial experience and firm stance against releasing violent offenders.
“Reappointing Leigh Gwathney is about more than leadership—it’s about protecting Alabama families from violent criminals and honoring the voices of victims who too often go unheard,” Marshall stated.
The letter highlights that nearly 85% of Alabama’s prison population is made up of violent offenders. It credits Gwathney for standing firm amid pressure to grant paroles, instead choosing to prioritize community safety and uphold the rights of victims.
Marshall emphasized that Gwathney was a pivotal appointment during the state’s 2019 parole reforms and has since gained the trust of law enforcement, prosecutors, and victims alike. The request to Governor Ivey urges her to reaffirm the state’s commitment to parole reform by keeping Gwathney in the top role.
A full copy of the support letter is available through the Alabama Attorney General’s website.
