Clemency

Outrage Erupts After Former Judge in Kids-for-Cash Scandal Receives Presidential Clemency

by

WASHINGTON — A decision by President Joe Biden to grant clemency to a former Pennsylvania judge involved in the infamous kids-for-cash scandal has sparked significant outrage among victims and their families. Michael Conahan, who was sentenced in 2011 for accepting illegal payments to send thousands of children to juvenile detention centers, was among roughly 1,500 individuals whose sentences were commuted last Thursday by the Biden administration. Conahan, along with fellow judge Mark Ciavarella, was implicated in a scheme that resulted in $2.8 million in kickbacks for sending more than 2,300 children to detention facilities, some … Read more

South Carolina Executes Richard Moore Despite Significant Clemency Appeals and Controversy Over Jury Composition

by

Columbia, S.C. — South Carolina has carried out the execution of Richard Moore, a 59-year-old death row inmate, marking the state’s second use of capital punishment in over a decade. An injection of pentobarbital was administered, leading to Moore’s death at 6:24 p.m. on Friday, state authorities confirmed. This execution follows the demise of Freddie Owens last month, signaling an active resumption of executions after a 13-year hiatus. Moore was convicted 23 years ago for the murder of James Mahoney, a convenience store clerk, in an incident that occurred at Nikki’s Speedy Mart in Spartanburg … Read more

Oklahoma Lawmakers File Lawsuit Seeking Release of Communication Documents in Death Row Inmate’s Clemency Hearing

by

Duncan, Oklahoma – Two Oklahoma lawmakers have filed a lawsuit against District 6 District Attorney Jason Hicks, seeking access to communications related to the clemency hearing of death row inmate Richard Glossip. Representatives Justin Humphrey and Kevin McDugle filed the lawsuit on December 20 in Stephens County District Court. The lawmakers are requesting the release of documents that outline the communications between Hicks and other members of the District Attorney Council, as well as reimbursement of attorney fees. Hicks, who oversees Caddo, Grady, Jefferson, and Stephens Counties, refused to provide the records in response to … Read more