Murder Convict Released In Johnston County

A man who served 20 years in prison for murder has been released to Johnston County . The Department of Corrections website shows 43-year-old Ronald C. Hyatt was paroled last Wednesday. Hyatt was convicted of first-degree murder in New Hanover County in June 1987 and sentenced to life in prison. However, Hyatt was still eligible for parole because his trial and sentencing occurred before the Structured Sentencing Act of 1994, which eliminated parole.