Historic Clemency Action: Biden Commutes Nearly 1,500 Sentences
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Washington, December 12 (NationPress) In a significant move, President Joe Biden on Thursday commuted the sentences of approximately 1,500 individuals and extended pardons to 39 convicts involved in non-violent offenses, making this the largest clemency action granted in a single day in contemporary U.S. history.
“America was founded on the ideals of possibility and second chances,” Biden stated.
He further noted that as President, he holds the vital responsibility of offering mercy to those who have shown remorse and rehabilitation, allowing Americans to reintegrate into society and positively impact their communities, while also addressing sentencing disparities faced by non-violent offenders, particularly those convicted for drug-related offenses.
“This is why, today, I am issuing pardons to 39 individuals who have demonstrated successful rehabilitation and a commitment to enhancing the safety and strength of their communities. Additionally, I am commuting the sentences of nearly 1,500 individuals who are serving lengthy prison terms—many of whom would receive lesser sentences if charged under current laws and practices,” the President remarked.
The individuals receiving commutations largely included those who were under home confinement during the Covid-19 pandemic, while the pardoned were primarily those convicted for non-violent offenses like marijuana possession. A pardon eliminates a conviction, while a commutation maintains the conviction but reduces or concludes the punishment.
Notably, President Biden had previously pardoned his son Hunter Biden for his conviction related to gun law violations and tax evasion.
With 40 days remaining in his term, the White House has indicated that further actions of this nature are anticipated.
“While today’s announcement signifies crucial progress, more is forthcoming. President Biden will persist in evaluating clemency petitions and advancing criminal justice reforms that uphold equity and justice, promote public safety, facilitate rehabilitation and reintegration, and offer genuine second chances,” the White House declared.
This move is part of the President’s ongoing efforts towards criminal justice reform.
Moreover, the White House highlighted that President Biden has granted more sentence commutations at this stage of his presidency than any of his recent predecessors during their first terms.
“He is also the first President in history to provide categorical pardons to individuals convicted of simple marijuana use and possession, as well as to former LGBTQI+ service members penalized for private conduct due to their sexual orientation,” the White House further added.
In the weeks ahead, the President is expected to take additional measures to ensure substantial second chances and will continue to evaluate further pardons and commutations.
