California Gov. Gavin Newsom recently granted 10 pardons, according to a report in the Marin Independent Journal. Among those pardoned was one person facing deportation and some convicted more than 20 years ago for drug-related offenses.
The governor’s authority to grant clemency is outlined in the state constitution. When a person receives a commutation, their sentence can be significantly reduced. As with commutation, a pardon can also greatly reduce a prisoner’s sentence; however it can also restore civil rights for the formerly incarcerated.
“Pardons do not forgive or minimize the harm caused by crime. Instead, these pardons recognize the pardon grantees’ self-development and rehabilitation since then,” said a news release from the governor’s office.
The news release also said that the governor considered whether the pardon is “consistent with public safety and in the interest of justice,” while also examining the conduct of the recipient since the offense.
As of December 24, the governor has granted 140 pardons, along with 35 reprieves and 123 commutations, according to the article.
Some pardon recipients also received a Certificate of Rehabilitation from superior courts commending them for “living an upright life” after their convictions.
The following are Gov. Newsom’s recent pardons: U.S. Army veteran John Berger, Kathy Uetz, Santiago Lopez, Lucas Beltran Dominguez, Michael Farrier, Kimberly Gregorio, James King III, Kenneth Lyerly, Jimmy Picton and Julie Ruehle.
