Parole board denies release of inmate

Two inmates sentenced to prison from Escambia County, Ala., were among the 80 being considered for parole this week, with one being denied Tuesday and the second having a hearing that was scheduled yesterday (Wednesday).

According to information released by the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, 30 parole hearings were held Tuesday and 23 inmates were denied parole, while five were granted the early release.

Michael Anthony Woods, 23, began serving a 97-month prison sentence on March 8, 2017, for multiple drug possession and distribution charges, along with multiple violations of probation.

Although not listed as a violent defender, Woods' parole was denied during Tuesday's hearing.

Lasherman Thomas, 38, who was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2010 for be armed robbery of an Atmore grocery store and theft of property I, was scheduled for a parole hearing Wednesday. Court records show his original probation was revoked and he was sentenced back to prison on drug charges.

According to the parole board release, Thomas was listed as a violent offender.