Board reviews criminal records of job applicants seeking second chances

The Governor's Pardon Advisory Board hearing on December 13, 2024, spotlighted the stories of individuals seeking clemency, with a focus on personal growth and redemption. Among those who spoke was 20-year-old Mister Turner, who recounted his past involvement in armed robbery. Turner, now a truck driver, expressed regret for his actions, attributing his decisions to youthful naivety and peer pressure. "I was young and dumb," he stated, acknowledging the serious nature of his past crimes but emphasizing his desire to move forward.

Turner's testimony highlighted the challenges he faces due to his criminal record, including discrimination in employment opportunities. He is currently employed full-time and is working towards obtaining a hazmat license, which he fears may be hindered by his past.

The board members probed deeper into Turner's motivations, questioning why he continued to associate with individuals committing serious crimes. Turner struggled to articulate his reasoning, reflecting on the allure of a reckless lifestyle at a young age. His candidness about his past and his current efforts to build a better future resonated with the board.

Following Turner, Jody Bauer shared her own story of involvement in a theft in 1995. Bauer described her role in a crime that led to her conviction and subsequent jail time. Since then, she has turned her life around, maintaining a stable job for nearly nine years and raising her son, who is set to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Both testimonies underscored the board's ongoing discussions about the potential for rehabilitation and the importance of second chances. The hearing served as a platform for individuals to demonstrate their commitment to change and the challenges they face in overcoming their pasts. The board's decisions in these cases could significantly impact the lives of those seeking to move beyond their criminal histories.