FBI joins investigation into threats to Kentucky Parole Board

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Federal Bureau of Investigation is now involved in an ongoing investigation into threats allegedly made to members of the Kentucky Parole Board.

That’s according to Gov. Andy Beshear during Thursday’s Team Kentucky update.

The threats occurred after inaccurate information was shared on the release of a Kentucky inmate, Ronald Exantus.

“Despite repeatedly voting for Ronald Exantus to remain in prison, parole board members have faced significant threats over the last several days,” Beshear said. “Remember, sharing accurate information is so important. We are urging everyone to only share the facts around this case. At a time of increased political violence around our country, these types of threats are taken incredibly seriously. And we are grateful to KSP and our law enforcement for their work.”

Beshear’s office confirmed Thursday that the parole board did not release Exantus on parole. Each time the board had an opportunity, it recommended Exantus stay in prison, according to the governor’s office.

Officials say Exantus was last reviewed for parole on Sept. 30, as required by state law.

The parole board issued a decision that Exantus stay in prison for the remainder of his sentence.

Despite that decision, officials say Kentucky law required the Department of Corrections to release Exantus on Mandatory Reentry Supervision. Again, officials stated the parole board did not make this decision, as the board does not have authority to release anyone on Mandatory Reentry Supervision.

That process is strictly under state law, officials say.

Beshear’s office further stated, “Per KRS 439.561, Exantus requested and was accepted by the state of Florida to serve his Mandatory Reentry Supervision there, in accordance with the Interstate Compact for Adult Offender Supervision.”

For further information, you  can visit the parole board’s website. To provide information on related threats, visit kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/tip.