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Hochul Grants Pardons, Restoring Freedom to 11 Individuals

1/1/2026

Center

Hochul Grants Pardons

New York Governor Kathy Hochul pardoned Denise De Simone Fierro and Peter Asan, along with nine others, clearing their felony records.
Denise De Simone Fierro, arrested in 1986 for selling cocaine, received a pardon and said, "I feel free, finally free."
Peter Asan, convicted of aiding a robbery, described the pardon as "a blessing" and expressed relief.
Hochul has granted clemency to 120 people during her tenure.

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Hochul Grants Clemency

New York Governor Kathy Hochul granted clemency to two inmates, her first clemency actions of 2025.
Terrance Cole, 20 years to life for burglary, and Raphael Jackson, 16 years to life for weapons possession, received commutations.
Advocates note backlog, citing hundreds of applicants, including Ramon Henriquez, supported by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, who remain in limbo.
Critics argue Hochul's inaction contradicts her commitment to a transparent clemency process.

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Hochul Grants Pardons

New York Governor Kathy Hochul pardoned Denise De Simone Fierro and Peter Asan, along with nine others, clearing their felony records.
Denise De Simone Fierro, arrested in 1986 for selling cocaine, received a pardon and said, "I feel free, finally free."
Peter Asan, convicted of aiding a robbery, described the pardon as "a blessing" and expressed relief.
Hochul has granted clemency to 120 people during her tenure.

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