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June 30, 2021Topeka, Kan. |  By: AP

Clemency is rare in Kansas; advocates hope for change


TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - Kansas trails most states in how frequently clemency is applied for and granted, but advocates are hoping that will change under Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports that the eight she issued last week were the most in at least 15 years. Five were commutations, which reduce or eliminate a sentence altogether.

The other three were pardons, which effectively wipe away a prior conviction, enabling applicants to apply for professional licenses or permanent residency.

Most of the crimes occurred years prior, were non-violent drug offenses or, in some cases, fell into both categories.