President Joe Biden has commuted the sentences of almost 1,500 offenders and pardoned 39 others, in what the White House calls the largest number of commutations and clemencies granted in a single day. Biden emphasized the importance of second chances and restoring opportunities for Americans to participate in daily life and contribute to their communities. The offenders are non-violent and have shown successful rehabilitation and commitment to making their communities safer. The 39 individuals pardoned were also convicted of non-violent crimes, including a decorated military veteran, nurse, and addiction counselor who work to help others. Biden’s actions are seen as a step towards removing sentencing disparities and offering mercy to those who have demonstrated remorse. He has issued more sentence commutations at this point in his presidency than any recent predecessors and plans to continue reviewing clemency petitions. Additionally, there is speculation that Biden may issue pre-emptive pardons for individuals scorned by President-elect Donald Trump. These actions are part of Biden’s efforts to provide second chances to those who have shown rehabilitation and contribute to society.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com