Arkansas Restorative Initiative

Arkansas Parole

This page explains how parole functions in Arkansas, how risk assessment tools influence outcomes, and why parole decisions often differ from public expectations.

Risk Assessment and ORAS

Arkansas relies on actuarial risk assessment instruments including components of the Ohio Risk Assessment System. These tools estimate likelihood of reoffense using historical and population based data.

ORAS instruments inform decisions but do not replace professional judgment or statutory authority.

ORAS Prison Intake Tool

Baseline risk and needs assessment conducted early in incarceration.

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ORAS Community Supervision Tool

Used to determine supervision intensity and conditions upon release.

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ORAS Reentry Tool

Supports release planning and supervision considerations.

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ORAS Community Supervision Manual

Guidance on scoring interpretation and supervision alignment.

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ORAS Reentry Manual

Framework for structured reentry evaluation and planning.

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Ongoing Pre and Post Implementation Review

Arkansas Restorative Initiative is currently conducting a structured review of parole related processes and decision frameworks as they existed prior to recent policy shifts and as they evolve following implementation. This review is informational in nature and focused on documented practice rather than speculation.

This work includes comparison of pre implementation baselines with post implementation outcomes, review of publicly available documentation, and analysis of how actuarial tools and procedural standards are operationalized over time.

Findings from this review are intended to support clarity, public understanding, and informed dialogue with relevant state and federal stakeholders where appropriate. No conclusions are being advanced at this stage.

As this work progresses, Arkansas Restorative Initiative anticipates sharing high level findings with policymakers, subject matter experts, and oversight entities in accordance with applicable law and established review processes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Decisions consider eligibility, institutional conduct, risk assessment results, release plans, and supervision capacity.
Eligibility allows review but does not compel release. Denials often reflect risk assessment outcomes or lack of approved housing.
Programming may strengthen a file but does not override actuarial scoring or statutory authority.
For parole education resources or clarification requests email arkansasrestorativeinitiative@gmail.com