Miller names new parole board member

Wednesday, Feb. 12, 1997 | 4:23 a.m.

Gov. Bob Miller announced Tuesday that Norman Ziola of Las Vegas will replace former Parole Commissioner Tom Wright. Ziola will fill the remainder of Wright's term, which was to last until June 30.

Miller originally urged Wright to resign in 1995 after Wright recommended the release of Donald Cameron, a career criminal who shortly after his release held up two businesses and shot and killed Sparks police officer Larry Johnson. Cameron was later killed by police gunfire.

Wright has said he accepts some of the blame for the incident, but that the parole system was also to blame. Wright held on to his spot until Jan. 9, when he announced he would step down.

Ziola, 53, is currently a hearing representative for the board and has been in law enforcement for more than 25 years. For 11 years he was a Las Vegas Metro homicide detective.

"Mr. Ziola is extremely qualified and brings with him an extensive and no-nonsense law enforcement viewpoint which makes him an excellent addition to the parole board," Miller said.

Ziola will receive an annual salary of $46,903.

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