Full Breakdown
Governor Kathy Hochul Grants Clemency to Thirteen Individuals
1/1/2026, 6:03:11 AM
Overview of Recent Clemency Actions
On December 30, 2025, New York Governor Kathy Hochul granted clemency to thirteen individuals, comprising eleven pardons and two commutations. This decision marks a significant moment in Hochul's administration, as it is her first clemency action of the year after a prolonged period of inaction. Since taking office in August 2021, Hochul has granted a total of 120 clemency actions, including pardons and commutations.
Details of the Clemency Grants
The pardons were awarded to individuals who have lived crime-free for over 25 years and have made positive contributions to their communities. Notable recipients include Peter Asan, convicted of aiding and abetting a robbery in 1985, and Denise De Simone Fierro, who was arrested for attempting to sell cocaine in 1986. Both expressed relief and gratitude upon receiving their pardons, which will alleviate the ongoing impacts of their criminal records.
The two individuals receiving commutations, Terrance Cole and Raphael Jackson, had served over a decade in prison. Cole, a U.S. Air Force veteran, was serving a 20-year-to-life sentence for burglary related to his struggle with heroin addiction. Jackson was serving 16 years to life for weapons possession. Their commutations allow them to appear before the Board of Parole earlier than originally scheduled.
Background and Context
Governor Hochul has implemented procedural reforms to enhance the clemency process, including the establishment of a Clemency Advisory Panel and improved communication with applicants. These changes aim to make the clemency process more effective, fair, and transparent. Despite these efforts, advocates have criticized the limited number of clemency grants, particularly for individuals serving lengthy sentences for serious offenses.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics, including legal advocates and reformers, have expressed disappointment over the slow pace of clemency actions, especially given the backlog of over a thousand pending applications. Steve Zeidman, director of the Criminal Defense Clinic at CUNY School of Law, highlighted that many applicants have institutional support from district attorneys and prison officials, yet their cases remain unresolved. Advocates argue that the clemency process should prioritize those who have demonstrated rehabilitation and are serving excessive sentences.
Official Statements and Responses
Governor Hochul stated, “After thoughtful consideration and analysis by a panel of independent experts, I am granting clemency to 13 individuals who have demonstrated remorse, rehabilitation and improvement in themselves and their communities.” She emphasized her commitment to a fair clemency process and acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with criminal records.
What's Next
As Hochul approaches her re-election campaign, the future of her clemency initiatives remains uncertain. Advocates are urging the governor to address the backlog of applications and consider cases that have garnered support from key figures in the criminal justice system. The outcome of these discussions may significantly impact the lives of many individuals seeking clemency in New York.
