Attending a Parole Board Hearing (Iowa)

The Iowa Board of Parole explains that it currently facilitates virtual interviews and case reviews. During an interview only the participating Board members and the prison holding the person have microphones and cameras. Registered victims are given the opportunity to speak but are muted during most of the interview and use their video and microphone only while addressing the Board. Family, friends, attorneys, media and other members of the public are allowed to listen to interviews only and may not participate or give statements. The Board may go into closed session during case reviews under Iowa Code sections 21.5(1)(a) and 904.602 to discuss records that must be kept confidential, and it warns that criminal offenses may be discussed in detail, which may not be appropriate for anyone under eighteen.