Newsom Pardons Five Veterans on Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, California Governor Gavin Newsom pardoned five military veterans for long-standing criminal convictions, while also initiating a posthumous clemency process for Sgt. Richard Allen Penry, a Medal of Honor recipient. The pardoned veterans include Don Archibald, Marcus Page, Robert Teagle, Brian Tinney, and Alex Zonn, each of whom demonstrated significant rehabilitation since their convictions, which ranged from robbery to drug offenses. Newsom emphasized the importance of clemency as a means to correct injustices in the legal system and support veterans' reintegration into society. The pardons do not erase the veterans' convictions but acknowledge their personal growth and contributions since their offenses. Additionally, the governor highlighted a commitment to enhancing mental health resources for veterans, recognizing their service and sacrifices. The pardons aim to restore certain civic rights lost due to their convictions, facilitating their reintegration into the community.