California: Governor Newsom grants executive clemency 11.11.24
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~ SACRAMENTO - On November 11, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom granted executive clemency to five veterans who served honorably in the Armed Forces. This announcement came following the Governor's proclamation declaring Veterans Day and highlighting major investments in veterans' mental health.

In addition to the pardons, Governor Newsom also initiated the process for granting a posthumous pardon to Sergeant Richard Allen Penry, an Army Veteran who received the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Vietnam War. Born in Petaluma, Sergeant Penry struggled with reentry into civilian life and self-medicated through substance use. As a result, he had multiple felony convictions which required approval from the California Supreme Court for a pardon to be granted.

According to the California Constitution, the Governor has the authority to grant executive clemency in the form of a pardon, commutation, or reprieve. This is seen as an important part of the criminal justice system as it can incentivize accountability and rehabilitation, increase public safety by removing barriers to successful reentry, correct unjust results in the legal system, and address health needs of incarcerated individuals with high medical risks.

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It is important to note that clemency does not forgive or minimize the harm caused by an individual's actions. However, a pardon can remove barriers to employment and public service, restore civic rights and responsibilities, and prevent unjust consequences such as deportation and permanent family separation.

The Governor carefully weighs numerous factors when reviewing clemency applications including an applicant's self-development and conduct since their offense, whether granting clemency is in the interest of justice, and how it may impact the community including crime victims and survivors.

The Governor's Office encourages victims, survivors, and witnesses to register with CDCR's Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services for updates on an incarcerated person's status. For more information on victim services or to register confidentially visit www.cdcr.ca.gov/Victim_Services/ or call 1-877-256-6877.

Since taking office, Governor Newsom has granted a total of 186 pardons. Copies of the clemency certificates can be found on the Governor's website.

For more information on executive clemency, visit the Governor's website.

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