Parole denied for Gerald Ward amid questions about responsibility for sale on camera

Gerald Ward (DLC 372912) appeared before the parole board July 15 at David Wade Correctional Center and was denied parole after members cited concerns about his acceptance of responsibility for a recorded narcotics sale.

Ward told the board he had struggled with crack cocaine and said he had since enrolled in treatment programs, earned a GED and participated in prerelease and 12-step programming. Staff reported he had a low risk score, a good work record at the facility and that he was enrolled in prerelease; they also noted a detainer for Bossier Parish jail time that would need to be completed.

Board discussion referenced a recorded video that staff said showed Ward selling three rocks of crack cocaine for $30; Ward argued he used rather than sold the drug. One board member said taking responsibility is a key part of recovery and cited the alleged recorded sale as a reason for denial. Another member voted to grant conditional on completion of prerelease and substance-abuse programming and on out-of-state residence arrangements offered by Ward’s brother; ultimately the majority denied parole.

The board urged Ward to continue programming and to complete prerelease and substance-abuse requirements as conditions that could affect future hearings.