Board grants pardon to Edwin Rojas after accountability for past offenses

The Board of Pardons and Paroles in Connecticut convened on June 4, 2025, to hear the case of Edwin Rojas, who sought an absolute pardon for past offenses. Rojas spoke candidly about his journey since his conviction, reflecting on the consequences of his actions and the personal growth he has experienced over the years.

During the hearing, Rojas acknowledged the mistakes he made 15 years ago, emphasizing the importance of confronting his past. He shared that he has since become a father and has engaged in community service, including coaching self-defense classes and working with children with disabilities. Rojas expressed a desire to move forward and not repeat the mistakes of his past, stating, “People make mistakes. No one's perfect.”

Board members questioned Rojas about his relationship with the victim's family and his understanding of the impact of his actions. Rojas indicated that he has distanced himself from the victim's family due to complex personal circumstances, including being adopted and navigating family reunification issues. He noted that while there has been an effort from his brother to reconnect, he is taking things step by step.

The board also addressed concerns regarding Rojas's past statements, which some interpreted as minimizing his responsibility. Rojas clarified that he accepts full responsibility for his actions and does not wish to blame the victim. He reiterated that his upbringing contributed to his past behavior but emphasized that he alone is accountable for his actions.

After deliberation, the board voted on Rojas's request for a pardon. The motion to grant an absolute pardon was passed by a majority vote, with one board member dissenting. Rojas expressed gratitude for the decision, marking a significant step in his journey toward rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

The meeting then proceeded to the next case, that of Christopher Rosario, who also sought a pardon and expressed his commitment to a productive life. The board's discussions reflect ongoing efforts to balance accountability with the potential for redemption in the parole process.