Committee on Parole denies John Murphy's parole request after panel cites record discrepancies
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Summary
The Committee on Parole unanimously denied John Murphy's parole request on March 2, 2026, citing discrepancies between Murphy's account and police reports and concerns about accountability; the panel encouraged further programming.
The Committee on Parole voted March 2 to deny parole to John Murphy (DOC #342762), who is serving a 22‑year sentence for aggravated flight from an officer and resisting police. The panel's decision was unanimous, and members cited inconsistencies between Murphy's statements and the police report in deciding to deny release.
Chair Ferrell Renata read Murphy's classification and sentence: a fifth‑felony offender, sentenced in June 2020, with a parole eligibility date of 10/20/2021 and a good‑time date of 01/26/2042. Murphy told the panel he was not in the car during the reported high‑speed chase and said he took a plea because he was threatened with a life sentence. He also said he had previously sought drug rehab and completed some programming while incarcerated.
"They beat they beat me up and literally knocked me out ... My mouth was busted," Murphy said when describing his arrest, asserting deputies assaulted him and that police accounts were inaccurate. Keisha Murphy, who spoke in support, called him "an intelligent young man" and urged the board to consider his support network outside prison.
Assistant District Attorney Randall Myers urged the board to oppose Murphy's release, saying the police report showed a stolen vehicle, reckless driving, flight, hiding and an altercation with officers and that Murphy's on‑record statements "do not line up" with those reports. "Based on his statements today, it's... I don't think he's being truthful with the board about what occurred," Myers said.
Members said the discrepancies and the inmate's criminal history weighed against parole. Member Tillis said law‑enforcement opposition and the record made the board's decision clear; other members echoed concerns about accountability. The chair commended Murphy's educational achievements but said the panel would deny parole and explore additional programming options.
The hearing took place at Riverbend Detention Center with a lieutenant and family supporters present. Murphy's request was denied by a 5–0 vote; the board did not set a new hearing date on the record.