U.S. President Biden has reduced or pardoned the sentences of approximately 1,500 American prisoners, marking the largest single-day clemency action by a U.S. president. Most of those granted clemency were under house arrest during the COVID-19 pandemic, while others were serving time for non-violent offenses like marijuana possession.
Recipients include a woman who led emergency response teams during natural disasters, a church deacon working as an addiction counselor, and a decorated war veteran. Biden expressed privilege in granting clemency to those who have shown remorse and supports giving second chances.
In his final weeks in office, Biden is expected to grant more clemencies. Human rights organizations have urged the release of dozens from death row before Donald Trump assumes the presidency.
Biden opposes the death penalty and halted federal executions in 2021. He has also pardoned his son, Hunter, who was convicted for a firearms offense and admitted guilt in a tax case, which Biden deemed politically influenced.
Source: NOS