Joyette Holmes was sworn in Tuesday as a member of Georgia's State Board of Pardons and Paroles by Chairman Terry Barnard at the board's January 2024 operational meeting.

Holmes of Cobb County is an attorney, has served as a defense attorney and previously served as Cobb County district attorney.

"I am grateful as well to the governor for the appointment, grateful for him believing me to be a good addition to this board and to this team that does so much work across the state," Holmes said at the meeting. "This board does such important work that revolves around public safety and I look forward to being a part of the board's decision-making."

Holmes began her career as a defense attorney in the district courts of Baltimore County, Maryland. She has served as the chief magistrate judge for Cobb County, as an assistant district attorney, assistant solicitor general and private attorney.

Holmes fills the vacancy created when the term of Jacqueline Bunn expired at the end of December. Gov. Brian Kemp made Holmes' appointment by executive order.

"We are grateful that the Governor, with his power to search throughout the state and nation, that he chose you," said Barnard. "Everybody knows that you're a welcome addition. We will grow to appreciate and respect your work here."

Board members are full-time state employees and are confirmed by the state Senate. Their authority includes granting paroles, pardons, reprieves and commutations including the authority to commute a death sentence.