California Governor Gavin Newsom granted clemency to 25 felons on Friday, just in time for the Easter holiday. Among those receiving pardons was Sithy Bin, a Cambodian immigrant who had been facing deportation. This move aligns with Newsom’s ongoing efforts to support individuals in the immigrant community who are at risk of being sent back to their home countries.
Sithy Bin, who once belonged to a gang, was sentenced in 2008 to 40 years to life for shooting at a rival gang member’s home during a barbecue. The shooting injured an innocent bystander. While in prison, Bin turned his life around, becoming a minister and participating in various self-help programs. His good behavior and dedication to rehabilitation led to a reduced sentence.
Newsom’s pardon for Bin is part of a broader initiative. The governor has criticized the immigration policies of the previous administration, particularly those that led to the deportation of immigrants without due process. This pardon reflects his commitment to using clemency powers to help those targeted by strict immigration laws.
Bin was released from prison during the COVID-19 pandemic and was later detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He was given a 60-day notice to self-deport back to Cambodia, a country he left as a young child. In response, Bin and his supporters reached out to Newsom, hoping for a pardon that would allow him to stay in California.
A pardon restores certain rights to former felons, including the ability to serve on a jury and apply for professional licenses. Newsom’s office considers various factors when granting clemency, such as the applicant’s efforts to improve themselves and the impact on victims and the community.
Since taking office, Newsom has issued a total of 224 pardons, 150 commutations, and 42 reprieves. His recent actions continue to highlight his focus on justice reform and support for rehabilitated individuals seeking to rebuild their lives.