NCJ Number
81906
Date Published
1981
Length
137 pages
Annotation
This study describes the procedures followed at the Bureau of Clemency for deciding cases to be pardoned and analyzes the statistics on the outcomes of clemency requests.
Abstract
Over 4 years (1976-1979), the bureau processed about 33,000 case files, decided some 2,000, and granted 202 pardons. The pardoned cases were analyzed to determine the offenses receiving pardons, the characteristics of pardoned offenders, and reasons for granting pardons. Results indicate that pardons are usually granted for prison sentences of 3 to 6 months; for property offenses; and for offenders over age 25, female, not of the working class, and not foreign. Abandonment and check fraud are offenses for which parole is commonly imposed instead of pardon. Graphs, charts, and tabular data are given. A six-item bibliography is provided.