BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Governor Maura Healey recommended pardons for seven people Thursday, including those convicted of crimes ranging from drug charges to arson.
It is the earliest a Massachusetts governor has recommended pardons in over 30 years, according to her office.
Speaking at a news conference at the State House Thursday, Healey said that the people she is recommending for clemency have gone on to have personal and professional success in their lives despite their convictions, but still carry a criminal record.
"These are folks who were convicted of crimes many years ago at a young age," Healey said. "They accepted responsibility for their mistakes and paid their debts to society. They’ve spent decades abiding by our laws, supporting their families, volunteering in their communities, and in many cases living exemplary lives of service to others."
"They face barriers and uncertainties because of their long ago convictions," Healey continued. "They are people who have redeemed themselves many times over and now seek closure to be able to move on in their journeys."
Healey sought to pardon Edem Amet, who was convicted in 1995 on drug charges; Xavier Delvalle, who was convicted in 2006 on breaking and entering and larceny charges; Glendon King, who was convicted in 1992 on drug charges; John Latter, who was convicted of arson in 1966; Deborah Pickard, who was convicted on several charges between 1982 and 1987; Gerald Waloewandja, who was convicted of drug charges in 2003; and Terrance Williams, who was convicted of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in 1984.
All seven people were recommended for clemency by the Parole Board or conditional executive clemency by the Advisory Board of Pardons, Healey's office said.
The Governor's Council must approve the pardons before they can take effect.
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