Governor Kathy Hochul Grants Clemency to 22 Individuals, Commutes One Sentence
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — New York Governor Kathy Hochul has granted clemency to 22 individuals, with one sentence commuted and the rest pardoned. This brings the total number of clemencies granted by Hochul since taking office in 2021 to 94.
Rehabilitation and Remorse
The pardons targeted individuals who had lived crime-free for over a decade, sometimes multiple decades. Hochul’s office stated that the focus was on those who had shown that they were rehabilitated, dedicated to bettering themselves and their communities, and remorseful. At a press conference on December 18, a reporter asked if Hochul would consider pardoning incoming President Donald Trump for his hush money conviction. "There is a pardoning process," she replied. "It requires a couple of elements. One is remorse."
Addressing Lingering Issues
The pardons aimed to address problems, such as being blacklisted from jobs or housing, that lingered after completing sentences. Some of the individuals granted clemency still had to deal with issues stemming from past convictions, even after moving out of state.
Recipients of Clemency
The following individuals were granted clemency:
| Name | Age | Charge | Convicted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timothy O’Brien | 74 | Sixth degree possession of a dangerous drug Third degree criminal possession of a controlled substance |
1971 1978 |
| Gene Lovick | 68 | Third degree attempted criminal possession of a weapon | 1980 |
| Herbert Martin | 62 | Third degree burglary | 1981 |
| Luis Sanchez | 62 | Third degree criminal possession of a weapon First degree attempted criminal possession of stolen property |
1986 |
Reform Advocates’ Critique
The Release Aging People in Prison Campaign (RAPP) called for more frequent clemencies and greater transparency. They argued that pardons promote public safety and criticized the governor’s office for not doing enough to address the issue. "We are disappointed that, with more than 32,000 New Yorkers in state prison, Governor Hochul was only able to identify one person worthy of a commutation," said Jose DiLenola, RAPP’s clemency campaign director. "That says more about her ability to do her job, which includes clemency, than it does about the many great people behind bars."
Conclusion
Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to grant clemency to 22 individuals is a step towards addressing the issues faced by those who have completed their sentences but still face lingering consequences. While some reform advocates have criticized the governor for not doing enough, the pardons demonstrate her commitment to rehabilitation and second chances.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of clemency?
A: Clemency is a process that allows a governor to reduce or eliminate a sentence, or to pardon an individual of a crime.
Q: What is the criteria for clemency?
A: The criteria for clemency typically include a showing of rehabilitation, remorse, and a commitment to bettering oneself and one’s community.
Q: How many clemencies has Governor Hochul granted since taking office?
A: Governor Hochul has granted 94 clemencies since taking office in 2021.
Q: What is the criticism from reform advocates?
A: Reform advocates, such as the Release Aging People in Prison Campaign, have criticized the governor for not doing enough to address the issue, citing the need for more frequent clemencies and greater transparency.
