Missouri Governor Mike Parson has issued pardons for seven individuals, exercising his executive clemency powers as granted under Article IV, Section 7 of the Missouri Constitution.
According to the Governor’s Office, the official documentation was completed earlier today and has been forwarded to the appropriate state agencies and the recipients of clemency.
Governor Parson, who inherited over 3,500 clemency applications upon taking office, has worked steadily to review and respond to each one.
Today’s announcement included the approval of seven pardons, while 25 other clemency applications were denied. With fewer than 100 applications still under review, Parson’s office has made considerable headway in reducing the longstanding backlog.
These pardons provide new opportunities for the individuals granted clemency, many of whom have been defined by their past actions for years.
Parson’s administration has emphasized that each applicant, regardless of outcome, deserves closure, a stance underscored by the Governor’s commitment to answering all applications.
While the pardons bring hope to some, the denials also reflect the challenging decisions involved in the clemency process, underscoring the balance of justice and mercy that clemency considerations demand.