Two named to Nevada parole panel

CARSON CITY -- Gov. Jim Gibbons on Thursday announced the appointments of two lifelong Nevadans to the state Board of Parole Commissioners.

Susan Jacobsen-Jackson and Mary Baker were tapped to serve on the board, which is responsible for making decisions regarding the release of offenders to community supervision.

The full-time positions pay $84,397 a year.

"Susan Jacobsen-Jackson has an extensive background in law enforcement and an exceptional record of service to the state of Nevada," Gibbons said. "She brings valuable institutional knowledge to the board, and I am pleased that she will continue serving the state in this important role."

She began her service with the state in August 1985 as an enforcement agent with the Nevada State Gaming Control Board. In 1986, she joined the attorney general's office as a senior investigator and served there until 1993 when she went to work for the Nevada Division of Investigation. In May 1999, Jacobsen-Jackson was assigned to the Commission on Peace Officer's Standards and Training where she continues to serve as a law enforcement training consultant and trainer.

Jacobsen-Jackson is the daughter of the late state Sen. Lawrence Jacobsen, R-Minden.

Baker has 30 years of experience in community corrections, working with juveniles, adults, crime victims, witnesses and their families. From 1977 to 1984, Baker served as a juvenile probation officer with Carson City district court. She also served as a pretrial services officer for the U.S. District Court from 1985 to 1997.

"Mary Baker brings a great deal of valuable experience to the state Parole Board," Gibbons said. "Her service with the U.S. District Court will be a valuable asset to the state and to her fellow commissioners."

Jacobsen-Jackson replaces Tom Goodson, who retired.

Baker replaces Mary Vieth, who left for another position.