Golden State Today

Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a series of clemency actions, including the granting of pardons in three cases. He has also forwarded multiple clemency cases to the Board of Parole Hearings, starting the process for fifteen additional cases. Two clemency applications were sent to the Board with instructions to conduct risk assessment investigations.

The California Constitution authorizes the Governor to grant clemency through pardons, commutations, or reprieves. For applicants with more than one felony conviction, approval from both the Board of Parole Hearings and the California Supreme Court is required before proceeding. The Board also investigates clemency applications at the Governor's request.

Governor Newsom grants clemency only when it aligns with public safety considerations. In assessing this, he evaluates factors such as an applicant’s self-development and behavior since their offense, and how a grant might affect the community, including crime victims and survivors. Clemency acknowledges rehabilitative progress post-conviction but does not negate or lessen the crime or its impact.

"Clemency is regarded by Governor Newsom as a crucial element of the criminal justice system," his office stated. It can "incentivize accountability and rehabilitation, enhance public safety by removing barriers to successful reentry, and rectify unjust outcomes within the legal system."

During his tenure, Governor Newsom has issued 208 pardons, 141 commutations, and 42 reprieves.

The Governor’s Office encourages victims, survivors, and witnesses to register with CDCR’s Office of Victims and Survivors Rights and Services for updates on an incarcerated person’s status. Information about victim services and registration can be accessed by calling 1-877-256-6877 (toll-free).

Copies of today's gubernatorial clemency certificates are available online. Cases referred today will be scheduled for future hearings by the Board of Parole Hearings.

Further details on executive clemency can be found online.