Dennis Foreman

Dennis Foreman has served as Chairman of the West Virginia Parole Board since January 2007.  As Chairman, he is responsible for the entire workings of the Parole Board, including overseeing the daily operation of the board and its staff.

Mr. Foreman’s strong commitment to justice can be seen through his daily actions. He takes a very active role in the inmate interviewing process, participating frequently as an interviewing member.

The Parole Board has become increasing busy with the inmate interviewing process, because of the growth in the prison population. The West Virginia Parole Board conducted more than 4,300 interviews for calendar year 2007, including parole and revocation hearings. Board Members also conduct Executive Clemency investigations and report their findings to the Governor’s office.

Mr. Foreman brings comprehensive law enforcement background and public service experience to his current position of Parole Board Chairman.  He is a retired member of the West Virginia State Police, retiring as District Commander of the Huntington District (Cabell, Wayne and Mason counties).  During these 22 years of service in law enforcement, Mr. Foreman was known as an experienced, knowledgeable investigator, training officer and supervisor.  In addition, he worked as lead investigator on several high profile homicide and sexual assault investigations and conducted a number of special investigations requested through the court system.  

During his tenure with the West Virginia State Police, Mr. Foreman attended West Virginia State Police Academy and Marshall University. In addition, he completed several continuing law enforcement educational classes sponsored by Northwestern University and received additional yearly in-service training on updated laws and criminal activities and patterns.

Chairman Foreman’s professional affiliations include American Association of State Troopers, West Virginia Troopers’ Association, and Association of Paroling Authorities International.