Parole panel denies Samuel Richardson and recommends six‑month DOC treatment program before reapplication

The Committee on Parole denied parole to Samuel Richardson on April 9, 2025, at a hearing held at Allen Correctional Center and recommended placement in a Department of Corrections‑approved treatment program of at least six months before he may reapply.

Richardson, who the panel recorded as a fourth‑felony offender serving a 50‑year sentence for possession with intent to distribute heroin, addressed the board and described completing multiple in‑custody classes and programs. He told the panel he had taken courses including "Boyz II Men, Man in the Mirror, Morris Compass, Oasis" and said those programs helped him take responsibility for his actions. "I got in all the classes that was available for me...and I try to provide myself with the help that I needed," Richardson said.

Warden Crystal Simon told the panel that Richardson "is not a problem to the facility" and that he had no significant disciplinary issues at Allen. Several family members and supporters were present and spoke in favor of Richardson.

Panel member Murphy recommended placement in a DOC‑approved treatment program, saying he had seen recent cases where the program produced strong outcomes, and the panel agreed to deny Richardson's parole at this time while recommending transfer to a program. Freeman and other members said the board would deny parole but assist with moving Richardson into a treatment program and encouraged Richardson to reapply after completion. "We're gonna deny your parole today, but we're gonna make the recommendation that you be moved to the program," a panel member told Richardson.

The panel recorded the denial and the formal recommendation that Richardson be moved to a DOC‑approved treatment program of at least six months; members urged Richardson to complete the program and reapply for a future hearing.