WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has granted clemency to 16 people who were convicted of non-violent drug crimes, issuing pardons to 11 men and women and commuting the sentences of five other people in the latest use of his clemency power to address racial disparities in the justice system.
Biden said in a statement Wednesday that April is Second Chance Month and that many of the individuals getting clemency had received “disproportionately longer” sentences than they would have under current law.
The Democratic president is campaigning for reelection in November and is grappling with how to boost support from communities of color that heavily supported him over Republican Donald Trump in the 2020 election. The two rivals are headed for a likely rematch in November.
“Like my other clemency actions, these pardons and commutations reflect my overarching commitment to addressing racial disparities and improving public safety,” Biden said.
Kourtney Kardashian, 45, shows off her incredible post
Ukraine aid worker Chris Parry died unlawfully alongside Andrew Bagshaw, inquest hears
Judges sceptical of Trump's immunity claim in election subversion case
Tāngarākau campground murder: Justice Williamson
Yokohama reaches Asian Champions League final by beating Ulsan in penalty shootout 5
Trump seeks Supreme Court pause in 2020 election case
Year in Politics: The year of three prime ministers and a swing to the right
Australian town of Marble Bar clocks 26 consecutive days over 43 degrees Celsius
Jon Bon Jovi admits he 'hasn't been a saint' in his 35
Chilean vet helps dogs, cats and rabbits injured in wildfires
Jelly Roll hits the gym amid his plans to lose 250lbs
Watch: Peru policeman dressed as bear pounces on Valentine’s Day