Connecticut Board Reviews Pardon Applications and Disclosure Requirements

During the Absolute Pardon Hearing held by the Board of Pardons and Paroles in Connecticut on August 12, 2025, critical guidelines were laid out for applicants seeking pardons. The chair emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that any changes to an applicant's conviction status or new arrests must be disclosed immediately. Failure to do so could result in the revocation of the pardon.

The board clarified that while they may tentatively grant pardons, these decisions are not final until thorough record checks are completed by the Connecticut Police Bureau of Identification. This process could take up to ten weeks, during which applicants must refrain from claiming their criminal records have been erased. The board also noted that they are not liable for any outdated information that may still appear online or in third-party background checks after a pardon is granted.

Once the record is cleared, applicants will receive a certificate of pardon by mail, which is the only official confirmation that their criminal history has been erased. Until that certificate is received, applicants should avoid making definitive statements about their criminal history.

This hearing underscores the board's commitment to a careful and thorough review process, ensuring that all applicants understand the implications of their applications and the importance of honesty throughout the process.