Gerald Ward (DLC 372912) appeared before the parole board July 15 at David Wade Correctional Center and was denied parole after members cited concerns about his acceptance of responsibility for a recorded narcotics sale.

Ward told the board he had struggled with crack cocaine and said he had since enrolled in treatment programs, earned a GED and participated in prerelease and 12-step programming. Staff reported he had a low risk score, a good work record at the facility and that he was enrolled in prerelease; they also noted a detainer for Bossier Parish jail time that would need to be completed.

Board discussion referenced a recorded video that staff said showed Ward selling three rocks of crack cocaine for $30; Ward argued he used rather than sold the drug. One board member said taking responsibility is a key part of recovery and cited the alleged recorded sale as a reason for denial. Another member voted to grant conditional on completion of prerelease and substance-abuse programming and on out-of-state residence arrangements offered by Ward’s brother; ultimately the majority denied parole.

The board urged Ward to continue programming and to complete prerelease and substance-abuse requirements as conditions that could affect future hearings.