Parole granted for Kevin Sam with conditions including completion of classes

The Committee on Parole granted parole April 8 to Kevin Sam (DOC number 504502), who is serving a sentence for possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

Panel members questioned Sam about his record and program participation. Facility staff reported Sam had no disciplinary write-ups and had completed reentry programming; Sam told the panel he had written a personal statement reflecting on triggers and recovery and described a plan that included employment offers tied to a culinary arts certificate.

Supporters — including family members and Kevin Higgins, a veteran who pledged to provide post-release oversight — spoke in favor of Sam’s release. Assistant District Attorney Randall Meyer told the panel his office would take no position. Panel member Pete Freeman said he came into the hearing skeptical because of Sam’s prior supervision history but was persuaded by the strength of Sam’s support network and program participation.

The panel’s approval included conditions: Sam must complete two classes (anger management and parenting) before release, attend three Alcoholics Anonymous meetings per week, and maintain regular contact with his probation officer. The panel noted the Jefferson Parish DA took no opposition and recorded the parole grant with those conditions.