US Biden's First Pardon Since Inauguration... Excludes Close Aides and Celebrities

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] On the 26th (local time), U.S. President Joe Biden exercised his pardon power for the first time in 15 months since his inauguration. Neither celebrities nor Biden's close associates were included in the recipients.

According to the White House, President Biden pardoned three individuals convicted of non-violent crimes and commuted the sentences of 75 others convicted of drug offenses on the same day.

In a statement, President Biden said, "The United States is a nation of laws, second chances, relief, and rehabilitation," adding, "In honor of Second Chance Month, I am using my constitutional authority to grant pardons and commutations to uphold those values." Established in 2017, 'Second Chance Month' refers to measures aimed at providing a second chance for those who have completed their sentences to reintegrate into civil society and the workforce.

Among those pardoned was Abraham Bolden, the first African American former Secret Service (SS) agent involved in the detailed schedule of the U.S. president, including close protection. At 86 years old, he was prosecuted and served time in prison in 1964 for attempting to sell Secret Service files.

Also pardoned were Betty Jo Bogans, who was convicted in 1998 and served seven years for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and Dexter Jackson, who was convicted in 2002 for aiding marijuana distribution. In addition, 75 individuals charged with non-violent drug offenses who are currently incarcerated, under house arrest, or on probation had their sentences commuted. The White House explained that these individuals have been making efforts toward rehabilitation by receiving education, vocational training, or drug treatment while in prison.

The pardon and commutation recipients did not include Biden's close associates or celebrities. The Washington Post (WP) reported, "Unlike former President Donald Trump, who mainly targeted political allies or celebrities," and added, "This move responds to public opinion calling for lenient treatment of a judicial system that often disproportionately affects people of color."

On the same day, the Departments of Justice and Labor announced an investment of $145 million (approximately 180 billion won) to train inmates in vocational skills and assist their employment. The Department of Education also plans to expand college course completion programs for inmates.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.