Caribbean Corner

Gov. Kathy Hochul on Dec. 20 granted clemency to 22 individuals, including 21 pardons and one commutation. Hochul said this action “recognizes individuals demonstrating remorse, exemplifying rehabilitation and displaying a commitment to improving themselves and their communities.” After implementing procedural reforms to strengthen the clemency process, the governor has made a total of 94 grants of clemency during her time in office. “Upon taking office, I implemented a series of reforms to bring additional transparency and accountability to the clemency process,” Hochul said. “I will continue working with law enforcement, victims’ rights groups, prosecutors, reform advocates and all stakeholders to ensure this process is operationalized responsibly.” The Governor's Office said it has taken a number of steps to improve transparency and communication in the clemency process. Hochul said the Executive Clemency Bureau has implemented a new policy of sending regular le...