WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced on Thursday he is commuting the sentences of nearly 1,500 Americans, including pardons for 39 people convicted of non-violent crimes, marking the largest single-day act of clemency in U.S. history.
The clemency announced Thursday is for people who have served out home confinement sentences for a minimum of one year after they were released. In a statement, the President said he would be reviewing clemency petitions and make further announcements in the future.
While the names of the individuals are not yet known, the White House provided details about who some of them are.
Among those being pardoned: A decorated military veteran described as having devoted much of his time helping members of his community including the sick and elderly; a nurse who is said to have helped during natural disasters and was at the forefront of vaccination efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic; as well as an addiction counselor recognized for his dedication to mentoring young men of color.
“I am pardoning 39 people who have shown successful rehabilitation and have shown commitment to making their communities stronger and safer,” Biden said. “I am also commuting the sentences of nearly 1,500 people who are serving long prison sentences – many of whom would receive lower sentences if charged under today’s laws, policies, and practices.”
“I will take more steps in the weeks ahead,” he added. “My Administration will continue reviewing clemency petitions to advance equal justice under the law, promote public safety, support rehabilitation and reentry, and provide meaningful second chances.”
The news comes after the President issued a pardon for his son, Hunter, who was prosecuted for gun and tax crimes.
More pardons are coming before Biden leaves office on Jan. 20, with a source close to Biden suggesting he and his senior aides are discussing blanket pardons for those who could be targeted for prosecution by the incoming Trump administration.
