Panel denies parole to Ronald Smith; board suggests long-term substance-abuse treatment on return

The Louisiana Committee on Parole in Baton Rouge denied the parole request of Ronald Smith (DLC #434598) on Aug. 5, 2025, concluding the seriousness of his 1999 murder conviction and opposition from law enforcement and victims weighed against release. The board did note Smith’s programming and the availability of transitional services and recommended long-term substance-abuse treatment as a condition to strengthen future parole prospects.

Why it matters: Smith served 26 years of a 35-year term on a plea; the board’s denial underscores the weight parole panels place on victim opposition and the nature of the original offense even where the parolee has significant institutional programming.

Smith described the circumstances of the offense and expressed remorse during his hearing. Warden Brent Thompson told board members Smith had no disciplinary write-ups in five years and had worked on a road crew and completed numerous classes. Terry Myers of the Louisiana Parole Project said his organization was prepared to provide transitional housing, mentoring, job assistance and case management; Myers told the panel Smith would receive long-term reentry support if paroled.

Board members acknowledged Smith’s institutional record and the program completion but noted persistent opposition from the district attorney, sheriff’s office and victims. After deliberation, the panel took a unanimous vote to deny parole. Several members said they would favor parole only after completion of a long-term substance-abuse program, indicating the board may consider a future appearance if Smith completes that programming.

The formal denial was recorded at approximately 9:38 a.m. on Aug. 5. The parole project said it would continue to work with Smith on transition planning and evaluate long-term treatment options.