Washington D.C., January 17, 2025 — In a sweeping move during his final days in office, U.S. President Joe Biden announced on Friday the commutation of sentences for nearly 2,500 individuals convicted of nonviolent drug offenses. This unprecedented act of clemency aims to address long-standing disparities in the criminal justice system.
"Today’s clemency action provides relief for individuals who received lengthy sentences based on discredited distinctions between crack and powder cocaine, as well as outdated sentencing enhancements for drug crimes," President Biden stated. "This action is an important step toward righting historic wrongs, correcting sentencing disparities, and providing deserving individuals the opportunity to return to their families and communities after spending far too much time behind bars."
The Associated Press reported that this latest round of clemency grants Biden the presidential record for the most individual pardons and commutations issued. The Democratic president emphasized his commitment to undoing "disproportionately long sentences compared to the sentences they would receive today under current law, policy, and practice."
The move has been hailed by advocates for criminal justice reform who have long argued that harsh sentencing laws, particularly for drug-related offenses, have disproportionately impacted minority communities. By addressing these sentencing disparities, the administration seeks to pave the way for a more equitable justice system.
The commutations are expected to have a profound impact on thousands of families across the nation, offering a second chance to those who have been incarcerated under outdated laws. Legal experts note that while this is a significant step, continued efforts are necessary to sustain meaningful reform.
(Cover Image: U.S. President Joe Biden speaks at the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Washington, January 17, 2025. /CFP)
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
