Hal Nash Named New Chair of Pardons Board

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has appointed Hal Nash, Chief Corrections Deputy of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, as the new chair of the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles, effective immediately, following the expiration of Leigh Gwathney's term. Nash brings significant law enforcement experience, including roles in Jackson and DeKalb counties and work with the U.S. Marshal Service. Gwathney, a former prosecutor, was known for her low parole approval rate, which dropped to 8% in 2023, drawing criticism from lawmakers and advocacy groups. Despite support from Alabama's Attorney General and law enforcement officials for her reappointment, Ivey prioritized new leadership with a tough-on-crime, fair, and pro-law enforcement approach. Nash has pledged to balance public safety with opportunities for personal change among parole applicants. The appointment followed a nomination process involving state legislative leaders.