Alan Cavener reappointed to Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole

The Senate Judiciary & Rules Committee voted to reappoint Alan Cavener of Nampa to the Commission of Pardons and Parole during its Jan. 26, 2026, meeting. Cavener introduced himself to the committee and described nearly 30 years in law enforcement; the committee record notes his reappointment to a term beginning Jan. 1, 2026 and expiring Jan. 1, 2029.

Cavener described his approach to parole as victim-focused and said he "considered himself a conservative when it came to parole for people," emphasizing that victims and their families should feel represented even if they did not receive a desired outcome. Committee members asked about the time commitment; Cavener said the Director of Pardons and Parole, Christine Starr, gave an accurate description and estimated that every eight to ten hours of hearings required about five hours of preparation.

Lawmakers also asked Cavener for examples of successful reentry programming. Cavener pointed to the Work Release Center near St. Anthony, saying it helped participants obtain stable employment and pay restitution. Senators and the vice chair expressed support for strengthening the Commission's work and for legislative backing where appropriate. The minutes do not record a roll-call vote for the appointment; the action is recorded as completed in committee minutes.