In a significant act of clemency, Governor Gavin Newsom pardoned 19 individuals on the eve of Thanksgiving.
The Los Angeles Times reported that Governor Newsom’s pardons acknowledged the substantial rehabilitation and community contributions of those granted clemency.
Among the pardoned is Earlonne Woods, co-founder of the acclaimed podcast "Ear Hustle." Woods started the podcast while serving time at San Quentin State Prison, launching it in 2017.
The podcast, which provides a glimpse into daily life inside prison, gained notable recognition, becoming a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize in 2020.
Woods' life took a significant turn when former Governor Jerry Brown commuted his sentence in 2018, initially handed down under California's stringent "three strikes" law for his involvement in an armed robbery.
This commutation made him eligible for parole, leading to his subsequent release and full-time employment with Public Radio Exchange as "Ear Hustle’s" producer and co-host.
His rehabilitation included educational and vocational efforts; Woods obtained a GED, took community college courses, and completed several trade programs while incarcerated.
The selection process for these pardons, according to Governor Newsom’s office, is comprehensive, focusing on the individual's self-development since their offense and the impact of the pardon on the community, including crime victims.
Newsom's office highlighted that all individuals pardoned had shown remarkable transformations, supporting their families and enhancing their communities.
"The grantees have turned their lives around since their convictions and have demonstrated a commitment of service to their families and communities," the governor’s office stated.
Another individual benefiting from Governor Newsom's pardon is Damian Clopton, who had previously served time for drug-related offenses. Clopton now owns a small business.
Expressing his gratitude, Clopton shared, "I already did turn my life around and this is a recognition of that." He emphasized the pardon's role in allowing him access to federal programs previously unavailable due to his criminal record.
"Today, I got a call from Gov. Newsom," Woods said in an Instagram video. "So, your boy has been pardoned!" he joyfully announced.
The impact of these pardons stretches beyond individual achievements, illustrating a shift towards a more rehabilitative and redemptive approach in the justice system.
Newsom began the pardoning process for Woods earlier in the year, submitting an application in March due to the requirements of state law concerning multiple felony convictions.
These pardons represent both an acknowledgment of personal growth and a commitment to justice reform, aligning with broader state and national discussions on the topic.
