Louisiana Board of Pardons hears 15 clemency cases; recommends three commutations, denies remainder

The Louisiana Board of Pardons considered 15 commutation and clemency applications at a multi-site meeting Aug. 25, 2025, and voted to recommend commutations in three cases while denying the rest.

Why it matters: Clemmency recommendations by the board are advisory and must be signed by the governor to take effect; recommendations shorten prison terms or make inmates eligible for parole sooner, potentially restoring liberty for people who have served decades. The board’s votes also record whether local prosecutors, victims and law enforcement oppose or support each request, a key factor for the governor.

Summary of outcomes (votes at a glance) - Robert Grant (DOC #127143) — Application for commutation denied. Board recorded three votes to deny and one vote in favor; the board noted strong victim and law‑enforcement opposition during the hearing. - Dwayne Middleton (DOC #116831) — Denied. The board recorded four votes to deny after victim and law‑enforcement opposition was emphasized. - Paul Ware (DOC #413957) — Recommendation to commute sentence to 60 years with parole eligibility. The board voted unanimously in favor and will forward the recommendation to the governor; parole‑project housing and reentry support were pledged if the executive approves. - Oni Mack (DOC #336911) — Denied. The board cited victim and law‑enforcement opposition and serious…