Today (January 23, 2025), Broome County District Attorney F. Paul Battisti, Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski, Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar, the Crime Victims Assistance Center, the Lindsey Family, and other local officials held a press conference, expressing their strong opposition to the potential parole of James Wales, the convicted murderer of 12-year-old Cheri Lindsey.

Wales was convicted in 1984 for the rape and murder of Cheri Lindsey and has been denied parole five times since becoming eligible in 2017. Wales is again scheduled for consideration by the New York State Parole Board, prompting local leaders and community partners to come together and speak out against his release.

The parole system is broken, It is a shame that the Lindsey family has to go through this every two years. What is there to contemplate? James Wales took the life of a child. James Wales should never see the light of day as far as I’m concerned. - Broome County Sheriff Fred Akshar

The news release notes that the Lindsey Family, represented by Cheri’s sister, Shelley Wood, has voiced their unwavering support for keeping Wales incarcerated for the remainder of his life, highlighting the ongoing pain of losing their daughter, sister, and loved one to such a senseless act of violence.

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For many years the Lindsey family have been strong activist in the community for crime victims and now it is our turn to help them. We are asking the community to send a clear message to the parole board that Wales must stay where he is. Broome County District Attorney F. Paul Battisti

Community members have been encouraged to voice their opposition to Wales’ potential parole by submitting letters by February 10, 2025, to the New York State Parole Board.

Local officials say that letters in opposition can be submitted online or mailed to 3040 Wende Road Alden, New York 14004-1187  Reference the following information regarding James Wales: Name: James B. Wales DIN: 84C1060

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