Biden pardons 11 people and shortens the sentences of 5 others convicted of non-violent drug crimes
President Joe Biden has granted clemency to 16 people who were convicted of non-violent drug crimes
By DARLENE SUPERVILLE
Published - Apr 24, 2024, 05:21 PM ET
Last Updated - May 27, 2024, 01:07 AM EDT
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has granted clemency to 16 people who were convicted of non-violent drug crimes, issuing pardons to 11 men and women and commuting the sentences of five other people in the latest use of his clemency power to address racial disparities in the justice system.
The Democratic president is campaigning for reelection in November and is grappling with how to boost support from communities of color that heavily supported him over Republican Donald Trump in the 2020 election. The two rivals are headed for a likely rematch in November.
“Like my other clemency actions, these pardons and commutations reflect my overarching commitment to addressing racial disparities and improving public safety,” Biden said.
