Logan Tipton’s family joins lawmakers in Frankfort to support parole reform bill
FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — The family of six-year-old Logan Tipton, who was killed in his Versailles home more than a decade ago, joined state lawmakers in Frankfort to speak in support of legislation honoring their son.
Lawmakers say House Bill 422 would increase the minimum amount of time certain offenders must serve before becoming eligible for parole. The bill would also raise parole eligibility for life sentences from 25 years to 35 years.
In addition, the proposal would limit early release options for violent and high-level felony offenders, including changes to mandatory re-entry supervision.
During the event, Logan’s family reflected on who he was and how they continue to cope with the loss.
“He was always the first one to meet me at the door when I got home, the first one to tell me good night,” Logan’s father, Dean Tipton, said. “He was a beautiful kid and he was too good for this world.”
Supporters of the bill say mandatory re-entry supervision is how Ronald Exantus — who was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the stabbing death of Logan Tipton — was released from custody in October of last year, despite being denied parole three times.
Exantus was later arrested in Florida and returned to Kentucky, where he remains in custody.
Lawmakers say the bill is aimed at strengthening public safety while honoring Logan Tipton’s memory by preventing similar cases in the future.
