Parole Board Decision

In the matter of the Corrections Act 1997

and

In the matter of an Application for Parole by Liam James Balmer

13 June 2008

Reason for Decision

On the 22 June 2006 in the Supreme Court of Tasmania at Burnie the Applicant was convicted of causing grievous bodily harm.

The Applicant was sentenced to 3 years imprisonment with a non-parole period of 2 years.

The Applicant becomes eligible to be released on parole on the 21 June 2008.

In considering the application for parole the Board has taken into account the statutory criteria which it is required to do pursuant to the Corrections Act 1997.

The Board has further considered the following information when assessing the Applicant’s application for parole:

1. Comments made by Chief Justice Underwood when passing sentence in relation to ‘this irrational burst of uncontrolled, vicious violence fuelled by the consumption of too much alcohol.’ Chief Justice Underwood noted there was no excuse or provocation for the attack. He further noted the substantial consequential effect this attack had on the victim. This resulted in a substantial sentence of imprisonment. The only factor in favour of the Applicant was that there were no prior relevant convictions.

2. The Board notes the Applicant has taken positive steps whilst in prison, seeking counselling regarding anger management and the strategies to control his pent up anger. He also stated to the Board that he stopped drinking after the offence and has had no alcohol or drugs since the event. He expressed to the Board remorse for his behaviour.

3. The Board notes there is no victim registered who wishes to give a statement to the Board. However the Board is very cognizant of the effect such an attack has had on the victim in all respects of his life.

4. The Board notes the Applicant has good prospects of employment on release.

5. The Board has considered the comprehensive pre-parole report prepared by his probation officer dated 2 June 2008.

6. The Board notes that the Applicant has suitable accommodation and the support of his family.

Taking all matters into account, the Board is of the view that the Applicant now meets the statutory criteria to be granted parole and that his reintegration into the wider community will best be served by the Applicant being granted a period of parole. There will be conditions that he be referred to an assessment for alcohol counselling and that he attend counselling for anger management as directed by his Probation Officer. For the duration of his period of parole the Applicant must also refrain from the use of alcohol and not enter licensed premises.

Paroled 24/06/2008 – 21/06/2009