Family: RI good time law 'bittersweet'

AP Modified

Updated: Jun 6, 2012 7:31 PM

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI/AP) - The family of a boy whose killer was released early from prison for good behavior says it's a "bittersweet victory" now that Rhode Island's governor has signed a bill barring people convicted of violent crimes from earning good-time credits.

Gov. Lincoln Chafee signed the new law Tuesday. It prevents murderers, child molesters and other violent offenders from being released early for good behavior.

The proposed restrictions were prompted by the release last year of Michael Woodmansee, who served a little less than 29 years of a 40-year sentence for killing 5-year-old Jason Foreman of South Kingstown in 1975.

Foreman's brother, John Foreman V, says his family fought for the changes because of their grief.

He released the following statement, “The signing of this bill into law by the Governor is a bittersweet victory for myself and my family.  For us, the loss of my brother, Jason Foreman, in 1975 is a permanent wound on our hearts and minds.”  

Following his release from prison, Woodmansee agreed to remain in custody at a psychiatric facility.

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