President Joe Biden has announced the commutation of sentences for nearly 2,500 individuals convicted of non-violent drug offences, marking a significant move towards addressing disparities in the U.S. criminal justice system.
These individuals had been serving disproportionately long sentences compared to current legal standards.
In a statement issued on Friday, Biden stated, “Today, I am commuting the sentences of nearly 2,500 people convicted of nonviolent drug offenses who are serving disproportionately long sentences compared to the sentences they would receive today under current law, policy, and practice.”
He further noted, “Today’s clemency action provides relief for individuals who received lengthy sentences based on discredited distinctions between crack and powder cocaine, as well as outdated sentencing enhancements for drug crimes.”
Highlighting the impact of previous reforms, he stated, “As Congress recognised through the Fair Sentencing Act and the First Step Act, it is time that we equalise these sentencing disparities.”
President Biden also expressed pride in his record on clemency, adding, “This action is an important step toward righting historical wrongs, correcting sentencing disparities, and providing deserving individuals the opportunity to return to their families and communities after spending far too much time behind bars.”
This decision underscores the administration’s commitment to criminal justice reform and provides a path forward for individuals who have faced unjust penalties under outdated laws.