Chairman Potteiger Releases Statement on Internal Investigation into Philadelphia Shooting, Initiates Changes to Agency Procedures

HARRISBURG, Pa., Nov. 30, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- An internal investigation into the state's supervision of Rafael Jones, who was on special probation when he allegedly shot and killed Philadelphia police Officer Moses Walker Jr. last August, has now been completed.

"We are all saddened by the senseless death of Officer Walker," Chairman of the Board of Probation and Parole Michael C. Potteiger said today.

At the time of the shooting, Potteiger demanded a thorough investigation into the matter to determine what happened, so that appropriate action could be taken if necessary.

After reviewing the investigation, Potteiger ordered the termination of three employees who were involved in the supervision of Jones.

"These employees were terminated due to violations of Board procedures, the Board's Code of Conduct, and shortcomings in the manner in which Jones was supervised," Potteiger said.  

In addition, Potteiger announced changes that are occurring at the Board as a result of the review of this case. Potteiger testified to the following changes before the House Democratic Policy Committee in October. They are:

• Changes are being made to special probation procedures to ensure that sentencing judges are aware when an offender with a consecutive special probation sentence has been denied parole and is approaching his maximum sentence date in prison.         
• The Board is pursuing the option of using GPS technology in order to provide parole agents with another tool for parolee management. GPS will replace the Board's current, electronic monitoring system.
• In addition, Potteiger ordered a complete review of agency processes and procedures regarding internal investigations. Potteiger said he was not satisfied with the length of time for this investigation to reach completion. 

For more information, visit www.pbpp.state.pa.us or call 717-787-5699.

Media contact: Sherry Tate, 717-787-6208

SOURCE Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole

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