TRENTON, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — New Jersey has reached a milestone in its clemency initiative as Gov. Phil Murphy granted clemency to another group of New Jerseyans involved in the legal system.
Murphy granted seven commutations from parole supervision, two commutations from incarceration, and 15 pardons, bringing the total number of clemency actions to 307 since the effort launched in June 2024.
“We have proven beyond the shadow of the doubt that New Jersey is the state for second chances,” said Murphy.
“Historically speaking in our state, receiving a pardon or having your sentence commuted was not a matter of fairness or objectivity. It was often a matter of who you knew and how well connected you were to those in power, but together we have blazed a trail toward a new method of delivering restorative justice and ensuring our institutions serve the people of New Jersey first and foremost.”
Vincent McDaniel of Atlantic City was sentenced 20 years ago for conspiracy and distribution of a controlled dangerous substance. He did three years behind bars and was pardoned by the governor, alleviating the burden of a lifetime of parole from his shoulders.
“I stand here today fully aware of the harm I caused my community, but more energized by the removal of these invisible handcuffs and the possibility ahead, hoping that my good works, in sha Allah, can outweigh my past mistakes.”
More than 4,500 applications have been submitted. Murphy said he will consider additional grants of clemency before the end of his term.