Controversial Pardon by Governor Phil Murphy Raises Questions of Political Influence

On January 20, 2026, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued a pardon to Harris Jacobs, the son of influential Atlantic City attorney Joe Jacobs, shortly after Harris was convicted of leaving the scene of a fatal hit-and-run that resulted in the death of 76-year-old Orlando Fraga. The incident occurred on September 4, 2022, when Harris Jacobs struck Fraga with his vehicle and subsequently failed to report the accident to authorities. Surveillance footage captured Jacobs exiting his car and leaning over Fraga before driving away without calling for help. Following a retrial, a jury found him guilty of second-degree knowingly leaving the scene of a fatal motor vehicle accident, which carried a potential sentence of five to ten years in prison.

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The timing of the pardon has drawn significant scrutiny, as it was reportedly issued at 8:30 a.m. on the same day the jury reached its verdict at 10 a.m. Jacobs' attorney, Lou Barbone, stated that the pardon was communicated to them before the jury's decision, raising questions about the integrity of the judicial process. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office criticized the pardon, asserting that it undermines the rule of law and suggests that political connections can influence justice. “Unfortunately, when politics pervades justice, the rule of law becomes subordinate to influence and power,” a spokesperson for the office stated.

Gov. Murphy pardons son of NJ powerbroker who was convicted in deadly hit-and-run

Kenny Fraga-Seruti, the son of the deceased, expressed his dismay at the pardon, calling it “the worst decision ever.” He emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “People make mistakes every day. Just learn to hold yourself accountable.” The pardon has also prompted discussions about the broader implications of clemency actions taken by politicians, particularly those with political connections.

Gov. Murphy pardons son of NJ powerbroker who was convicted in deadly hit-and-run

Governor Murphy defended his clemency actions, stating, “Each pardon and commutation represents a story of accountability, growth, and redemption.” He emphasized that his administration has been guided by a belief in mercy and fairness. However, critics argue that the pardon of Harris Jacobs exemplifies a troubling trend where politically connected individuals receive preferential treatment. The ACLU of New Jersey, while praising Murphy's broader clemency efforts, did not specifically comment on the Jacobs case.

In one of his final acts, Murphy pardoned son of Democratic power broker

There are conflicting accounts regarding the circumstances of the accident and the subsequent actions taken by Harris Jacobs. While his defense claims he attempted to assist Fraga and was emotionally overwhelmed, prosecutors maintain that his decision to leave the scene was inexcusable. Additionally, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office noted that Jacobs had contacted his father multiple times after the incident but did not call emergency services.

Gov. Murphy pardons son of NJ powerbroker who was convicted in deadly hit-and-run

As the new administration under Governor Mikie Sherrill takes office, it remains to be seen how clemency policies will evolve. The ACLU’s Clemency Project, initiated in 2024, aims to address excessive sentencing, particularly in cases involving domestic violence survivors, and may influence future clemency decisions.

In one of his final acts, Murphy pardoned son of Democratic power broker

• “Unfortunately, when politics pervades justice, the rule of law becomes subordinate to influence and power…a conviction can be rendered meaningless not by the verdict of a jury, but by the intervention of political power and connections,” — Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Spokesperson

Gov. Murphy pardons son of NJ powerbroker who was convicted in deadly hit-and-run

• “This was his decision and it’s the worst decision ever,” — Kenny Fraga-Seruti, Son of Orlando Fraga

Gov. Murphy pardons son of NJ powerbroker who was convicted in deadly hit-and-run

• “Each pardon and commutation represents a story of accountability, growth, and redemption.” — Governor Phil Murphy

Gov. Murphy pardons son of NJ powerbroker who was convicted in deadly hit-and-run

• “The accident was a tragic no escape impact in light of the pedestrian walking into the lane of travel at a construction site area,” — Lou Barbone, Attorney for Harris Jacobs

Gov. Murphy pardons son of NJ powerbroker who was convicted in deadly hit-and-run