Gavin Newsom grants 19 executive clemency, pardons to criminally convicted individuals
Gov. Gavin Newsom has granted 19 pardons for executive clemency, according to a news release Wednesday.
These pardons include current and former Californians who have been criminally convicted, some with substance and robbery charges. Among those pardoned, three were convicted of crimes in Sacramento County.
Newsom has authority to grant clemency in the form of pardons, commutations or reprieve.
“The Governor regards clemency as an important part of the criminal justice system that can incentivize accountability and rehabilitation, increase public safety by removing counterproductive barriers to successful reentry, correct unjust results in the legal system, and address the health needs of incarcerated people with high medical risks,” the news release stated.
Pardons may eliminate barriers to employment and public service, but do not erase an individual’s conviction. According to the news release, pardons seek to restore civic rights and prevent collateral damages because of a conviction, like deportation or permanent family separation.
To be considered for clemency, the governor reviews an applicant’s self-development, conduct since the offense, the grant’s “interest of justice” and the impact the grantee has had on their community, crime victims and survivors.
While serving as governor, Newsom has granted 205 pardons.
