Which of the following statements is true regarding parole in Pennsylvania?

Parole is a conditional release of a prisoner before the completion of their sentence, and it is granted based on a variety of criteria, including good behavior during incarceration. When an offender is paroled, they are still under the supervision of the parole board and must adhere to certain conditions, which may include regular check-ins, employment requirements, and restrictions on travel. This structure is intended to reintegrate the individual into society while still ensuring public safety and providing a framework for accountability.

The other statements do not reflect the true nature of parole in Pennsylvania. For instance, parole does not mean an offender finishes their sentence in custody; rather, they are released under specific conditions. Additionally, victim impact statements can still be relevant in the parole process, as they can be considered in decisions regarding parole eligibility and conditions. Furthermore, terms of parole are fundamentally different from probation and do not inherently guarantee that parole terms will be shorter than probation terms. Thus, the correct understanding of parole involves recognizing the balance of granting freedom while maintaining oversight through monitored conditions.