The Washington state Clemency and Pardons Board hears cases of people currently incarcerated and makes recommendations to the governor for commutations. 

These recommendations can allow someone to leave prison before their sentence is completed. In Washington state law, someone’s case would need to be “extraordinary” in order to qualify. 

Last year, the board heard a little over 30 cases and recommended 10 people for commutations. Governor Ferguson rejected all of the cases, some of which had the support of every board member. 

The Governor has approved pardons for some people who had already completed their sentences and his office said he was "considering the recommendation of the board while also accounting for victim impacts and public safety."

His approach hasn’t sat well with members of the Clemency and Pardons Board. 

Guests: 

Raymond Delos Reyes, chair of the Washington Clemency and Pardons Board

Dan Berger, professor at the University of Washington-Bothell and director of the Washington Prison History Project

Relevant Links: 

Cascadia Daily News: Governor’s disrespect for clemency process extends mass incarceration

KOMO: Case questions Washington's clemency process after governor rejects board's recommendation