(Headline USA) California Gov. Gavin Newsom granted 10 pardons Friday, including criminals convicted of robbery, dealing drugs, and a drug dealing illegal alien.
The California Constitution gives the governor authority to grant clemency. A commutation reduces the length of a prison sentence. A pardon would effectively do the same, but it also restores certain civil rights for people who have already completed their sentences.
Newsom has granted 140 pardons, 123 commutations and 35 reprieves since taking office in 2019.
Newsom’s pardons included:
—John Berger, who was convicted of transporting drugs.
—Kathy Uetz, who was convicted of drug-related crimes.
— Santiago Lopez, who was convicted of drug crimes.
—Lucas Beltran Dominguez, an illegal immigrant convicted of transporting or selling drugs and possession of drugs with an intent to distribute.
—Michael Farrier, who was convicted of first-degree burglary and second-degree robbery.
—Kimberly Gregorio, who was convicted of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and obstructing an officer.
—James King Ill, who was convicted for selling cocaine.
— Kenneth Lyerly, who was convicted of a possession of a controlled substance for sale.
—Jimmy Picton, who was convicted of trespassing and the possession of a controlled substance for sale.
—Julie Ruehle, who was convicted of possession of a controlled substance and vehicle theft.
Adapted from reporting by the Associated Press
