Clark County DA opposes AB 91 citing serious criminal implications
June 01, 2025 | 2025 Legislature NV, Nevada
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The Nevada Senate Committee on Judiciary convened on June 1, 2025, to discuss Assembly Bill 91, which proposes significant changes to the state's parole system. The meeting highlighted concerns from various stakeholders, including law enforcement and victim advocates, regarding the potential implications of the bill.
John Jones, representing the Clark County District Attorney's Office, expressed strong opposition to the bill, emphasizing that it could allow a majority of the parole board to overturn sentences for serious crimes, including first-degree murder and acts of terrorism. He raised alarms about the possibility of a governor appointing board members who might favor leniency in the criminal justice system, potentially leading to early releases for dangerous offenders after serving only a fraction of their sentences.
Jones clarified that while the legislature has the power to amend penalties for certain offenses, AB 91 would apply broadly, affecting all cases, regardless of severity. He noted that current laws already provide mechanisms for reviewing cases involving juveniles and that there are strict limitations on parole eligibility for serious crimes.
The meeting also featured testimony from law enforcement representatives, including Josh Martinez from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Mike Cathcart from the City of Henderson, both of whom echoed concerns about the bill's potential to undermine public safety.
Victim advocates voiced their opposition as well, with one survivor sharing a personal account of the trauma caused by a family member's crimes. This testimony underscored fears that the bill could force victims to relive their experiences repeatedly if offenders were granted parole reviews.
The committee heard no further opposition testimony, but the discussions raised critical questions about balancing justice reform with the need to protect victims and ensure public safety. As the legislative process continues, the implications of AB 91 remain a focal point of concern for many in the community.
John Jones, representing the Clark County District Attorney's Office, expressed strong opposition to the bill, emphasizing that it could allow a majority of the parole board to overturn sentences for serious crimes, including first-degree murder and acts of terrorism. He raised alarms about the possibility of a governor appointing board members who might favor leniency in the criminal justice system, potentially leading to early releases for dangerous offenders after serving only a fraction of their sentences.
Jones clarified that while the legislature has the power to amend penalties for certain offenses, AB 91 would apply broadly, affecting all cases, regardless of severity. He noted that current laws already provide mechanisms for reviewing cases involving juveniles and that there are strict limitations on parole eligibility for serious crimes.
The meeting also featured testimony from law enforcement representatives, including Josh Martinez from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Mike Cathcart from the City of Henderson, both of whom echoed concerns about the bill's potential to undermine public safety.
Victim advocates voiced their opposition as well, with one survivor sharing a personal account of the trauma caused by a family member's crimes. This testimony underscored fears that the bill could force victims to relive their experiences repeatedly if offenders were granted parole reviews.
The committee heard no further opposition testimony, but the discussions raised critical questions about balancing justice reform with the need to protect victims and ensure public safety. As the legislative process continues, the implications of AB 91 remain a focal point of concern for many in the community.
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