Research insights

Statement from the Press Secretary Regarding Executive Grants of Clemency

President Donald J. Trump granted pardons to 73 individuals and commuted the sentences of 70 others.

Todd Boulanger received a full pardon after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit honest services fraud. He had served in the Army Reserves and was recognized for heroism in his community.

Abel Holtz was pardoned after serving a 45-day sentence for impeding a grand jury investigation, following a long career as a community philanthropist in South Florida.

Representative Rick Renzi was granted a pardon after being convicted of multiple charges, including extortion and money laundering, following his service in the House of Representatives and his advocacy for the underprivileged.

Kenneth Kurson was pardoned despite being charged with cyberstalking, with his ex-wife advocating for the case to be dropped, and he remains an active community leader and foster parent.

Casey Urlacher received a full pardon after being charged with illegal gambling, continuing to serve as the unpaid Mayor of Mettawa, Illinois, and being known for his dedication to public service.

Carl Andrews Boggs was pardoned for conspiracy charges, having since rebuilt his business, employed hundreds, and contributed significantly to his community.

Jaime A. Davidson had his life sentence commuted after witnesses recanted their testimony in a murder case, and he has spent his time mentoring over 1,000 inmates.

James E. Johnson, Jr. was pardoned for a migratory bird-related offense after years of contributing to wildlife conservation efforts.

Tommaso Buti, an Italian businessman, was pardoned for financial fraud charges related to a restaurant chain, although he was never convicted in the United States.

Bill K. Kapri, known as Kodak Black, had his sentence commuted for making a false statement on a federal document following significant philanthropic contributions to various causes.

Jawad A. Musa had his life sentence for a non-violent drug offense commuted after demonstrating rehabilitation, strengthening his faith, and securing community support in Baltimore.

Adriana Shayota had her sentence commuted after serving over half of her term for trafficking counterfeit goods, mentoring inmates, and showing dedication to rehabilitation.

Glen Moss was pardoned for a 1998 conviction and has since been an active philanthropist at the national and local levels.

Anthony Levandowski was pardoned for a criminal charge related to self-driving technology, with the sentencing judge recognizing his significant engineering contributions.

Aviem Sella, an Israeli citizen, was pardoned for a 1986 espionage indictment related to the Jonathan Pollard case following a formal request from Israel.

Michael Liberty was pardoned for campaign finance violations, having been actively involved in philanthropy and raising seven children.

Greg Reyes, the former CEO of Brocade Communications, was pardoned after his conviction for securities fraud, which was marked by prosecutorial misconduct.

Ferrell Damon Scott had his life sentence for marijuana-related charges commuted after serving nearly nine years, as his sentencing was considered overly harsh under current laws.

Jerry Donnell Walden had his sentence commuted after serving 23 years of a 40-year sentence, earning his GED, and completing numerous educational programs.

Jeffrey Alan Conway was pardoned for a prior conviction and has since built a successful business, employing nearly 500 people and contributing to his community.

Benedict Olberding was pardoned for a bank fraud conviction and has since established multiple businesses and become a respected member of his community.

Syrita Steib-Martin was pardoned after serving time for arson and later founding an organization that helps formerly incarcerated women reintegrate into society.

Michael Ashley had his sentence for bank fraud commuted after demonstrating remorse, taking responsibility, and dedicating time to caring for his mother.

Lou Hobbs had his life sentence commuted after serving 24 years, completing his GED, and focusing on self-improvement and family connections.

Matthew Antoine Canady had his sentence commuted after demonstrating rehabilitation, maintaining clear conduct, and acquiring vocational skills.

Mario Claiborne’s life sentence was commuted after 28 years of incarceration, during which he maintained clear conduct and completed rehabilitation programs.

Rodney Nakia Gibson had his drug-related sentence commuted after 11 years, earning multiple vocational certifications and helping fellow inmates obtain their GEDs.

Tom Leroy Whitehurst’s life sentence was reduced to 30 years for drug-related charges in recognition of his exemplary prison conduct and work history.

Monstsho Eugene Vernon had his sentence for armed bank robberies commuted after 19 years, demonstrating good behavior and successfully recovering from cancer.

Luis Fernando Sicard had his sentence commuted after serving 20 years for drug-related charges, participating in vocational programs, and maintaining clear conduct.

DeWayne Phelps had his methamphetamine-related sentence commuted after 11 years, earning vocational training and serving as a reliable inmate.

Isaac Nelson’s mandatory 20-year sentence was commuted, as changes in the First Step Act would have resulted in a significantly shorter sentence today.

Traie Tavares Kelly had his drug-related sentence commuted after serving over 14 years, demonstrating rehabilitation and consistent work performance.

Javier Gonzales’ sentence was commuted after serving over 14 years for methamphetamine-related charges, showing rehabilitation and vocational training.

Eric Wesley Patton was pardoned for making a false statement on a mortgage application. He has since built a strong reputation and contributed to his community.

Robert William Cawthon was pardoned for a 1992 false statement conviction, having since lived an exemplary life and engaged in significant community service.

Hal Knudson Mergler was pardoned for an LSD-related conviction after leading a successful career, building a family, and contributing to charitable causes.

Gary Evan Hendler received a full pardon for drug offenses dating back to 1984, having spent nearly 40 years leading addiction recovery efforts through AA meetings and radio programs.

John Harold Wall was pardoned for a 1992 meth distribution conviction after completing five years in prison and four years of supervised release.

Steven Samuel Grantham was pardoned for a 1967 vehicle theft conviction. He served 18 months and probation before leading a law-abiding life and raising his grandchild.

Clarence Olin Freeman received a full pardon for a 1965 illegal whiskey still conviction, having since built a successful business and earned community respect.

Fred Keith Alford was pardoned for a 1977 firearm violation, serving one year of unsupervised probation before becoming a respected figure in his small town.

John Knock’s life sentence for a non-violent marijuana offense was commuted after 24 years, maintaining a clean record and completing college courses.

Kenneth Charles Fragoso, a U.S. Navy veteran, had his sentence commuted after serving over 30 years for a non-violent drug offense, maintaining a strong prison record and mentoring inmates.

Luis Gonzalez, 78, was granted clemency after serving 27 years of a life sentence for a non-violent drug offense, maintaining a clean record, and working in UNICOR for two decades.

Anthony DeJohn’s sentence was commuted after 13 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute marijuana, maintaining a spotless record, and securing employment and housing for release.

Corvain Cooper, a 41-year-old father of two, had his sentence commuted after serving over seven years for a marijuana-related conspiracy.

Way Quoe Long’s sentence was commuted after serving nearly 25 years of a 50-year sentence for a non-violent marijuana offense, during which he earned his GED and learned English.

Michael Pelletier’s sentence was commuted after serving 12 years of a 30-year term for marijuana distribution, maintaining a clean record, becoming a skilled painter, and securing housing with his brother.

Craig Cesal, a father of two, had his life sentence commuted after serving time for a marijuana-related conspiracy, maintaining a perfect record, becoming a paralegal assistant, and remaining active in ministry.

Darrell Frazier’s sentence was commuted after serving 29 years for non-violent drug offenses, maintaining a clean record, and founding a non-profit providing free tennis lessons to underprivileged children.

Lavonne Roach’s sentence was commuted after 23 years of a 30-year term for non-violent drug charges, mentoring inmates, and maintaining an excellent prison record, with strong family support for her reintegration.

Blanca Virgen’s sentence was commuted after 12 years of a 30-year term, receiving a much harsher sentence than a plea deal would have offered and earning multiple educational awards in prison.

Robert Francis’ sentence was commuted after 18 years of a life term for non-violent drug conspiracy, maintaining a flawless prison record and commitment to rehabilitation.

Brian Simmons’ sentence was commuted after serving five years of a 15-year term for a non-violent marijuana-related offense, maintaining a strong prison record, and securing support from his fiancée and community.

Derrick Smith’s sentence was commuted after more than 20 years of a nearly 30-year sentence for drug distribution, deeply regretting his role in a tragic incident and planning to work in construction and reconnect with his family.

Raymond Hersman’s sentence was commuted after serving nine years of a 20-year term, maintaining a perfect prison record, completing educational programs, and preparing to rejoin his family.

David Barren’s sentence was commuted after serving 13 years of a life sentence plus 20 additional years for drug conspiracy, maintaining an exemplary prison record and eager to reunite with his six children.

James Romans’ life sentence was commuted after over 10 years behind bars for a marijuana-related conspiracy, completing numerous courses, and securing job offers upon release.

Jonathan Braun’s sentence was commuted after serving five years of a 10-year term for conspiracy to import marijuana and money laundering, with plans to support his wife and children.

Michael Harris’ sentence was commuted after 30 years in prison for conspiracy to commit murder, during which he mentored inmates in business, pursued degrees, and maintained an exemplary record.

Kyle Kimoto’s sentence was commuted after serving 12 years of a 29-year term for telemarketing fraud, working in prison, mentoring others in faith, and securing employment.

Chalana McFarland’s sentence was commuted after serving 15 years of a 30-year term, cooperating with authorities but receiving a harsher sentence than co-defendants who pleaded guilty.

Eliyahu Weinstein’s sentence was commuted after serving eight years of a 24-year term for real estate fraud, maintaining a spotless prison record and strong community support.

John Estin Davis’ sentence was commuted after four months in prison for a financial conflict of interest, with no financial harm resulting from his actions.

Alex Adjmi was pardoned for a 1996 financial crime that led to five years in prison, dedicating himself to charitable work and supporting children with special needs.

Elliott Broidy was pardoned for conspiracy related to acting as an unregistered foreign agent, known for philanthropic contributions to law enforcement, veterans, and the Jewish community.

Stephen Bannon received a full pardon for fraud-related charges tied to a political project. He is known as a key figure in the conservative movement for his political expertise.

Douglas Jemal was pardoned for a 2008 fraud conviction, recognized for revitalizing inner cities and supporting charitable causes, with the judge deeming imprisonment unnecessary.

Noah Kleinman’s sentence was commuted after six years of a nearly 20-year term for a non-violent marijuana offense, maintaining a clean record and planning to rejoin his family and business.

Dr. Scott Harkonen was pardoned for a fraud conviction related to misleading wording in a medical press release, recognized for his groundbreaking kidney disease research.

Johnny D. Phillips, Jr. was pardoned for a 2016 wire and mail fraud conviction; known as a respected community member and devoted father advocating for Type 1 diabetes research.

Dr. Mahmoud Reza Banki was pardoned for violating Iranian sanctions and making false statements, with an appeals court overturning the sanctions charge, though the felony conviction hindered his career.

Tena Logan’s sentence was commuted after eight years of a 14-year term for a non-violent drug offense, holding a strong prison record, taking leadership roles, and securing full-time work while living with her husband.

MaryAnne Locke’s sentence was commuted after serving 11 years of a nearly 20-year term for a non-violent drug offense, working and studying in prison before transitioning to home confinement.

April Coots’ sentence was commuted after more than 10 years in prison for a drug offense, earning an HVAC license, completing an apprenticeship, and preparing for reintegration with strong support.

Caroline Yeats’ sentence was commuted after nearly seven years of a 20-year term for a first-time drug offense, training service dogs, mentoring inmates, and remaining active in her faith.

Jodi Lynn Richter’s sentence was commuted after 10 years of a 15-year term for a non-violent drug offense, training service dogs, tutoring inmates, and learning to operate heavy machinery.

Kristina Bohnenkamp’s sentence was commuted after more than 10 years of a 24-year term, maintaining a strong prison record, working in UNICOR, and preparing to reunite with her family.

Mary Roberts’ sentence was commuted after serving 10 years of a 19-year term for a non-violent drug offense, participating in the PAWS program, UNICOR, and food service while preparing to reconnect with her daughter.

Cassandra Ann Kasowski’s sentence was commuted after serving over seven years of a 17-year term, maintaining an outstanding prison record, and working in programs like UNICOR and PAWS.

Lerna Lea Paulson’s sentence was commuted after nearly seven years of a 17-year term, maintaining a spotless disciplinary record, working full-time in UNICOR, and serving as a mental health counselor and suicide watch assistant.

Ann Butler’s sentence was commuted after she served over 10 years of a nearly 20-year term, actively participated in prison work programs, focused on her faith, and planned to rebuild her life with her family.

Sydney Navarro’s sentence was commuted after almost eight years of a 27-year term, earning her GED, completing work programs, and mentoring at-risk youth through the SHARE program.

Tara Perry’s sentence was commuted after she served nearly seven years of a 16-year term, obtained a nursing certification, and participated in religious services while preparing to reunite with her mother.

John Nystrom received a full pardon for failing to report double payments on a school reconstruction project, taking full responsibility, repaying restitution, and remaining active in community service.

Gregory and Deborah Jorgensen received full pardons, and Martin Jorgensen received a posthumous pardon for a 1996 conviction related to misbranding beef products, with their clemency backed by Governor Kristi Noem and Senator Mike Rounds.

Jessica Frease received a full pardon for a bank fraud conviction at age 20, serving two years before early release, and now trains as an EMT while raising funds for cancer patients.

Robert Cannon “Robin” Hayes received a full pardon after serving probation for making a false statement in a federal investigation, with strong support from Senator Thom Tillis and others.

Thomas Kenton “Ken” Ford was pardoned for a decades-old mining-related charge and served probation before promoting miner safety and integrity in the industry.

Jon Harder’s 15-year sentence was commuted after nearly five years for financial misconduct, fully cooperating with investigations and helping preserve jobs and senior housing.

Scott Conor Crosby received a full pardon for a 1992 bank robbery conviction, turning his life around and becoming an active church member and mentor.

Chris Young’s life sentence was commuted after over a decade for a non-violent drug offense, learning to code in prison, and maintaining a perfect disciplinary record.

Adrianne Miller’s sentence was commuted after serving six years for drug-related offenses, completing rehabilitation programs, and taking accountability for her actions.

Lynn Barney was pardoned after serving 35 months for firearm possession tied to a prior marijuana offense, now recognized as a hardworking father and role model in his community.

Joshua J. Smith received a full pardon for a 2003 drug conviction, founding a non-profit for prison reform and mentoring inmates after his release.

Amy Povah was pardoned for a past drug offense, later becoming a leading advocate for criminal justice reform and playing a major role in the First Step Act.

Dr. Frederick Nahas was pardoned for obstructing a healthcare investigation in the 1990s, rebuilding his reputation as a respected surgeon serving his community.

David Tamman was pardoned after serving seven years for altering financial records in a Ponzi scheme, accepting full responsibility with clemency backed by legal experts.

Dr. Faustino Bernadett was pardoned for failing to report a hospital kickback scheme. He later dedicated his time to philanthropy and securing medical supplies for underserved communities.

Paul Erickson was pardoned for a financial crime tied to the Russian collusion probe, receiving a sentence nearly double the recommended length despite no evidence linking him to Russia.

Kwame Kilpatrick’s sentence was commuted after he served seven years for corruption charges as former Detroit mayor. During this time, he led Bible studies and taught public speaking.

Fred “Dave” Clark’s sentence for a first-time, non-violent offense was commuted after six years, leading faith-based programs and vocational training while incarcerated.

Todd Farha, Thaddeus Bereday, William Kale, Paul Behrens, and Peter Clay were pardoned for a 2008 regulatory reporting issue. The court found no personal financial gain, and legal experts cited overcriminalization.

David Rowland was pardoned for removing asbestos without a valid license, later remaining active in community service, including work with Make-A-Wish.

Randall “Duke” Cunningham received a conditional pardon after serving over eight years for bribery. He later helped inmates earn GEDs and volunteered in his community.

William Walters’ sentence was commuted after he served nearly four years for insider trading, paid $44 million in fines, and was recognized for his philanthropy.

Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. (Lil Wayne) was pardoned for a firearm possession charge, known for his philanthropy and receiving clemency support from Deion Sanders and industry leaders.

Stephen Odzer received a conditional pardon for bank fraud, serving 18 months while supporting philanthropic causes, including funding synagogues and providing PPE to hospitals.

James Brian Cruz’s sentence was commuted after serving 20 years of a 40-year drug sentence, mentoring inmates, and earning support from faith leaders and former prisoners.

Steven Benjamin Floyd, a Marine veteran, was pardoned for bank robbery by extortion. He later built a successful business and supported his community through charitable efforts.

Joey Hancock was pardoned for a drug conspiracy conviction, receiving support from Senator Roger Wicker and becoming a hardworking employee and active church member.

David E. Miller received a full pardon for making a false statement to a bank, later working with Men of Valor to help former inmates rebuild their lives.

James Austin Hayes was pardoned for insider trading, fully cooperating with authorities and repaying all profits while remaining active in his church and community.

Drew Brownstein was granted a full pardon after an insider trading conviction. He later paid all fines and contributed to his community by coaching youth sports and supporting Jewish Family Services.

Robert Bowker was pardoned for a decades-old wildlife trade violation, dedicating his life to conservation efforts with organizations like the Humane Society and World Wildlife Fund.

Amir Khan was pardoned for wire fraud after fully repaying the victim, later volunteering for charities, including St. Jude’s, Salvation Army, and Covenant House.

Shalom Weiss had his sentence commuted after serving 18 years for financial crimes, supported by prominent legal figures while managing chronic health issues and reuniting with his family.

Salomon Melgen’s sentence for healthcare fraud was commuted, with supporters highlighting his generosity in treating patients regardless of their ability to pay.

Patrick Swisher received a full pardon for tax fraud, later building a company employing over 1,000 people and mentoring former felons through a scholarship program.

Robert Sherrill was pardoned for a drug conviction, later overcoming addiction, starting a cleaning business, and launching a nonprofit for at-risk youth.

Dr. Robert Corkern was pardoned for bribery charges and later received support from Mississippi officials to resume practicing medicine in a community facing a doctor shortage.

David Lamar Clanton was pardoned for making false statements, later advocating for rural healthcare and community service with support from Senator Roger Wicker.

George Gilmore was pardoned after payroll tax violation convictions, with prominent New Jersey officials backing his clemency for his contributions to civic projects.

Desiree Perez was pardoned for drug charges. Since her conviction, she has rebuilt her life, maintained steady employment, and become a criminal justice advocate.

Bob Zangrillo was pardoned for charges linked to the Varsity Blues case. A respected businessman and philanthropist, he was supported by multiple industry leaders.

Hillel Nahmad received a full pardon for a gambling conviction. Since then, he has focused on giving back to his community.

Brian McSwain was pardoned for a 1990s drug conviction. Despite years of steady employment, his record prevented career advancement.

John Fordham was pardoned after a healthcare fraud conviction, though a judge later dismissed related conspiracy charges.

Ed Henry was pardoned for aiding in the theft of government property. He had served two years of probation and paid a fine.

President Trump commuted the sentences of Jeff Cheney, Marquis Dargon, Jennings Gilbert, Dwayne L. Harrison, Reginald Dinez Johnson, Sharon King, and Hector Madrigal, Sr., to time served.

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