US President Joe Biden. Photo: Leah Millis, Reuters
US President Joe Biden announced on Thursday that he would grant pardons to 39 people convicted of non-violent crimes and commute sentences for nearly 1,500 people serving long prison terms. This was reported by the Associated Press.
This decision came just a week after Biden signed an unconditional pardon for his son Hunter Biden, who was awaiting sentencing in cases of tax fraud and illegal possession of firearms. Despite the president’s previous promises that he would not interfere in his son’s affairs, Biden took this step.
Hunter Biden, 54, pleaded guilty to federal tax charges in a second trial after being found guilty in cases related to illegal gun possession and drug use. The sentences were expected to be announced later in December.
The change in sentences concerns individuals who were placed under house arrest during the COVID-19 pandemic. Biden said that these people would have received shorter sentences if their charges had been in line with current US laws and practices.
In addition, according to the sources, the possibility of pardoning people convicted of non-violent drug-related crimes, as well as those who, according to human rights organisations, were illegally imprisoned, was discussed.
“As president, I have the great privilege of extending forgiveness to those who have shown remorse and rehabilitation, restoring opportunities for Americans to participate in everyday life and contribute to their communities,” Biden said.
The President added that in the coming weeks his administration would continue to consider applications to change the verdicts.
