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In a significant move, Governor Kathy Hochul has extended clemency to 16 individuals, marking her third such action in the current year. The group benefiting from this clemency comprises 12 individuals receiving pardons and four receiving sentence commutations. This decision underscores Governor Hochul’s ongoing commitment to review clemency applications consistently throughout the year, a shift from the traditional year-end consideration approach.
Governor Hochul, in her statement, emphasized the gravity of her role in acknowledging the transformative journeys of these individuals. By opting for a more frequent review of clemency applications, she aligns her administration’s actions with her promise to make this process more efficient and fair for New Yorkers.
The Clemency Process
The Governor’s office has introduced significant improvements in the clemency procedure, focusing on transparency and effective communication. A notable advancement is the Executive Clemency Bureau’s policy to keep applicants informed about the status of their cases through regular updates. Additionally, an online platform has been revamped to streamline the application process, complete with detailed templates for both pardons and commutations.
A Clemency Advisory Panel, comprising impartial experts, has been formed to guide the Governor in her decisions. The latest clemency grants reflect the panel’s recommendations, targeting individuals with long-standing convictions and those whose continued presence in their communities is deemed beneficial.
Governor Hochul’s clemency has touched the lives of individuals with diverse backgrounds and stories. For instance, Vitaliy Dorum, an accomplished software engineer, and Andres Rivera, a professional in property management, have both led crime-free lives for over two decades. Their pardons will facilitate their pursuit of U.S. citizenship. Similarly, Donnell Reed, a U.S. citizen, and military veteran, has been recognized for his contributions to public service and security management.
Miledys Jett and Noel Watson, both with over 30 years of crime-free living in the U.S., have their pardons aiding in their naturalization processes. Devon Cottman and Holdemar Cruz, U.S. citizens dedicated to their families and professions, are also among the pardoned.
Bernardo Encarnacion, Justin Riley, Jose Antonio Reyes, Warren Stewart, and Kayode Oseni, each with their unique contributions to their communities and families, have received pardons that reinforce their commitments to positive living.
A Second Chance
The commutations granted by Governor Hochul are equally noteworthy. Alexander Dockery, after serving nearly 23 years of a 25-year sentence, has shown remarkable academic progress and community service. Eric Davidson, with almost 14 years served of a 16-year sentence, has excelled in academic pursuits and has been a positive influence within the prison system.
Michael Young and Trevell Coleman, both demonstrating significant personal growth and contribution to their respective communities, have been granted commutations, offering them a chance for an earlier parole consideration.
