Biden commutes roughly 1,500 sentences and pardons 39 people in biggest single-day act of clemency

President Joe Biden issued the largest single-day act of clemency in modern history on December 13, 2024, commuting the sentences of approximately 1,500 individuals and pardoning 39 people convicted of nonviolent crimes. The commutations apply to those who served at least one year on home confinement after being released during the COVID-19 pandemic to curb virus spread. The pardoned individuals, aged 36 to 75, have demonstrated rehabilitation and include educators, veterans, and community leaders.

Biden emphasized the importance of second chances and addressing sentencing disparities, particularly for nonviolent drug offenders. This act follows previous clemency measures, such as pardoning those convicted of marijuana possession and military members penalized for consensual same-sex relationships.

Advocacy groups are pressing for broader clemency, including for federal death row prisoners, as Biden’s term nears its end. While Biden has taken steps to reduce sentencing inequities, his decision to pardon his son Hunter for gun and tax offenses sparked controversy and heightened calls for clemency for other Americans. Further clemency actions are anticipated before Biden leaves office on January 20, 2025.

Source: AP News