President Joe Biden has granted pardons to 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes and commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 others serving long prison terms. The move underscores his administration’s commitment to criminal justice reform.
“As president, I have the great privilege of extending mercy to people who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation,” Biden said. “This action restores opportunities for Americans to participate in daily life and contribute to their communities, and takes steps to remove sentencing disparities for non-violent offenders, especially those convicted of drug offenses.”
The commutations primarily affect those placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic to mitigate the virus’s spread. Biden noted that many of these individuals would have received shorter sentences if charged under today’s laws and policies.
The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a prominent advocacy group, praised the decision. “We want Biden to look at these people and consider using his power even more in the upcoming weeks,” said Tierra Bradford, the organization’s senior program manager.
U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts also commended the president’s actions, calling them “meaningful and historic.” She encouraged further steps to address sentencing disparities and support those impacted by the justice system.
The White House highlighted that these clemencies are the most ever granted by a president in a single day. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized, “The president takes this very, very seriously and is going to review all options, especially the clemency petitions.”
Biden concluded by stating that his administration will continue reviewing clemency petitions and that more steps will be taken in the weeks ahead to advance justice and equity within the legal system.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
