Parole board keeps Jonathan Mills on supervision after contested firearm‑purchase allegation

Jonathan Mills appeared before the Louisiana Committee on Parole on a contested allegation arising from an attempted firearm purchase. The panel read a record showing a warrant and an amended charge that ultimately resulted in a class‑4 misdemeanor conviction for false swearing. Mills told the panel he tried to buy guns after witnessing a double homicide in his driveway and that he disclosed his prior conviction during the transaction.

His attorney, Devin Jones, argued Mills was honest during the transaction, that the firearms in question were sold as a package and that prosecutors had reduced the charge — a sequence Mr. Jones said counsels restraint. Jones urged the panel to weigh Mills’ conduct since release, including steady work, participation in programs, and family support.

Panel members pressed Mills about why he sought two large‑caliber handguns and whether the intent was self‑protection. Mills described fearing for his safety after the murders, said he attempted to complete a lawful purchase rather than buy a weapon on the street, and acknowledged it was a mistake to try buying firearms while on parole. The panel discussed public‑safety concerns and the fact that Mills disclosed a conviction on the background form.

After an executive session, the panel voted not to revoke Mills’ parole. Members said they were mindful of public‑safety considerations but also noted Mills had served time awaiting the hearing and that circumstances — including the reduced charge and his record since release — supported continued supervision with admonitions rather than returning him to incarceration. The board recorded a majority decision to continue Mills on supervision and to caution him to follow all conditions.

The panel’s decision leaves Mills under supervision; probation staff were expected to document the admonition and any follow‑up conditions.