Enchantment State News

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has invoked her executive clemency power by pardoning 12 individuals that were convicted of crimes in the state, many of which were guilty of non-violent crimes. 

"The forgiven offenses committed by the individuals included drug possession, auto burglary, forgery and fraud, among others. All but one of the offenses dated back more than a decade; some dated back to the 1980s," a press release from Lujan Grisham's office stated. "Five of the individuals had applied for clemency under the Martinez administration, four of whom received no answer to their application whatsoever."

The governor's most recent 12 pardons followed 19 issued in June of 2020. 

According to Article V, Section 6 of the state's constitution, the governor does have the power to grant pardons for "all offenses except treason and in cases of impeachment," according to the press release. 

"The governor’s pardoning power extends to all offenses committed under state law other than the offenses of impeachment and treason. The governor does not have authority to pardon convictions for violations of municipal ordinances or convictions from another jurisdiction, such as convictions from other states and convictions under federal law," according to the press release. "The governor’s pardon restores certain fundamental rights, such as the right to vote and the right to hold public office and other positions of public trust."