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.
All rise! Former judge says 'pop
VOX POPULI: Nikkei index soars but real economy still feels sluggish
Clandestine lab found during search for 'dangerous' suspect in violent kidnapping
Judge rejects Trump free speech challenge to Georgia 2020 election case
Pedo school cop shoots himself dead after high
VOX POPULI: Manga artist exposes the juicy dynamics behind ‘oden’ factions
China is drilling some of the deepest holes in hunt for natural resources
HKFP Lens: Hong Kong photographers document their last moments in the city
Wisconsin prison inmate pleads not guilty to killing cellmate
Education Ministry workers on tenterhooks awaiting job cuts news
Italy bans loans to Minneapolis Institute of Art because of long
Gay Games Hong Kong unfazed by potential censorship, organiser says