NYCLU Statement on Parole Granted for Judith Clark

NEW YORK -Today, the New York State Parole Board granted Judy Clark, who was serving a life sentence for her role in a robbery, her release on parole. The following statement is attributable to the New York Civil Liberties Union executive director Donna Lieberman:

“The state parole board made a significant decision today in granting New York’s second-longest serving incarcerated woman her freedom after spending more than half of her life in jail for a crime committed almost four decades ago. Although she was the getaway driver and not at the scene of the crime, Judy was sentenced to die in prison. Since being incarcerated, she has expressed deep remorse for her role and used every opportunity to better herself and those around her.

“In 2016, citing her exceptional strides in self-development, Governor Cuomo commuted Judy’s sentence, making her eligible for parole. Since then, over 2,000 people, including members of law enforcement, elected officials, and former district attorneys have called for Judy’s release.

“Our correctional system does not exist to punish people, and the fundamental premise of our parole system is to allow people to repair their lives. Today, the parole board delivered an important message to the entire country, and showed that New York stands for justice and recognizes that those incarcerated should be given a chance to return to society.”