Massachusetts: Lawmakers hear testimony on parole changes

The father of a 27-year-old teacher who was raped and stabbed to death by a repeat offender is urging lawmakers to toughen the state’s parole system.

Les Gosule, whose daughter Melissa Gosule was murdered in 1999, testified Wednesday before a legislative committee. The hearing was called following the December shooting death of Woburn Police Officer John Maguire, allegedly at the hands of a paroled career criminal who had received three prior life terms.

Gov. Deval Patrick has filed a bill requiring anyone convicted of a third serious felony to receive the maximum sentence and begin serving it after completing any prior sentences.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers has filed a separate bill thatwould bar parole for anyone sentenced for a third serious felony.

Gosule supports the bipartisan bill.