President Biden pardons 39 people, commutes sentences for nearly 1,500 others

(CLO) US President Joe Biden announced on Thursday that he had pardoned 39 people convicted of non-violent crimes and commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 people serving long sentences.

The move comes more than a week after the president signed an unconditional pardon for his son, Hunter Biden.

US President Joe Biden. Photo: REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz

The administration has listened to calls from advocacy groups asking the president to extend clemency to thousands of people unjustly convicted in the US justice system, according to White House officials.

President Biden explained that those granted clemency would have received lighter sentences if convicted under current laws and policies.

The pardons are primarily for people convicted of non-violent drug crimes and individuals identified by human rights groups as being unjustly detained.

"As President, I have the great honor of granting clemency to those who have demonstrated remorse and reform, restoring their opportunity to participate in everyday life and contribute to their communities. At the same time, I aim to reduce unfairness in sentencing, especially for non-violent drug-related crimes," Biden said.

President Biden said he will continue to review additional pardon applications and expects to take further action in the coming weeks.

The commutations mainly apply to people who have been placed under house arrest during the COVID-19 pandemic to limit the spread of the virus, but some human rights groups have urged the president to consider more cases.

According to the White House, the number of clemency orders issued by President Biden this time is the highest number ever in a single day.

“He takes this very seriously and will continue to consider all options, particularly pardon applications,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said.

Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office on January 20 next year, has announced that he will use his pardon power on the first day of his term to pardon those involved in the riot at the Capitol on January 6, 2021. This has raised expectations that he will issue more pardons.

Cao Phong (according to Reuters, CNN)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/tong-thong-biden-an-xa-cho-39-nguoi-giam-an-cho-gan-1500-nguoi-khac-post325406.html