Outgoing US President Joe Biden announced pardons for 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes and commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 others serving long prison terms, Reuters reports.
Many of those receiving commutations were placed in home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and would have faced shorter sentences under current laws and policies. Biden emphasized the importance of extending mercy to those who have shown remorse and rehabilitation, particularly non-violent offenders, such as those convicted of drug-related crimes. Biden plans additional clemency actions in the coming weeks as his administration continues reviewing petitions.
The move follows Biden’s earlier unconditional pardon of his son, Hunter Biden. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to pardon those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot upon taking office.
