Biden breaks record for clemency acts, pardoning 1,500 criminals
Photo: Joe Biden (Getty Image)
Joe Biden granted presidential clemency to nearly 1,500 criminals, which is the highest number of pardons used by a US President since the 20th century, according to BBC News.
On Thursday, US President Joe Biden reported he had applied the lawful mitigation of punishment for nearly 1500 imprisoned and issued a presidential pardon for 39 criminals involved in non-violent offenses. White House estimated it as one of the biggest number of pardons granted in one day.
Meanwhile, BBC officials claim it was a forced step since the US president was pressured by public backlash for pardoning his son in two criminal cases.
1500 of those whose sentence period was shortened were under home arrest since COVID-19. As it is stated in Biden's announcement, they have shown a strong dedication to rehabilitation and deserve a second chance. Other 39 prisoners, who were found guilty of non-violent offenses, have shown enough records of significant contributions to society to be set free.
Although the whole list of pardoned has not been released yet, some names have been announced. Among them were a nurse described as having contributed to COVID-19 vaccination campaigns and an addiction counselor who was said to mentor the underage individuals.
Biden pardons his son Hunter
At the beginning of December, Biden's son Hunter was set to be sentenced for charges related to illegal gun possession and tax evasion, so Biden granted him a presidential pardon for both of these cases.
