Kansas Prisoner Review Board Rescinds Parole Decision for Cop Killer Jimmie Nelms
TOPEKA — In a significant reversal, the Kansas Prisoner Review Board has rescinded its earlier decision to grant parole to Jimmie Nelms, a 78-year-old inmate serving two life terms for the 1978 murder of Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) Trooper Conroy O’Brien. The board’s initial approval in March faced mounting criticism from law enforcement officials and the community, prompting a reconsideration of the decision.
On May 16, board members voted unanimously to deny Nelms’ release following widespread backlash, including condemnation from KHP representatives and Attorney General Kris Kobach. KHP Colonel Erik Smith stated that the decision to grant parole was unacceptable, emphasizing the risks of releasing a convicted cop killer. "There is no conceivable world in which the release of a convicted cop killer is acceptable," he asserted.
Nelms has been eligible for parole since 1993 and has appeared before the board nine times. The board’s reconsideration underlines the complexities of parole decisions for those sentenced to life sentences and reflects the ongoing commitment to supporting law enforcement officers and their families.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
