President Joe Biden has announced the commutation of the sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row, reducing their sentences to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
This action aligns with his administration’s ongoing moratorium on federal executions, which excludes cases involving terrorism or hate-motivated mass murders.
“Today, I am commuting the sentences of 37 of the 40 individuals on federal death row to life sentences without the possibility of parole. These commutations are consistent with the moratorium my Administration has imposed on federal executions, in cases other than terrorism and hate-motivated mass murder,” he said. “Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss.”
Fox News has reported that Biden’s commutations did not spare criminals convicted during his term in officer, or during the administration of President Barrack Obama.
In his statement, President Biden reaffirmed his commitment to reducing violent crime and promoting a justice system that is both fair and effective. He expressed a profound condemnation of the acts committed by these individuals, extended sympathy to the victims and their families, and emphasized the profound and lasting impact of these crimes.
However, the President underscored his belief that the death penalty has no place at the federal level, citing his personal experiences as a public defender, Senate Judiciary Committee chairman, Vice President, and now President. He described his decision as one guided by conscience and a conviction that the death penalty should not be resumed under a future administration.
This move reflects his broader stance against capital punishment, reinforcing a justice system focused on accountability without resorting to executions.
The action comes just days before Christmas, while many families of the victims of these heinous crimes will know that the President has spared the lives of the killers of their loved ones.