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Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles grants most pardons, denies several after daylong review
Summary
The Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles met July 8 for an absolute-pardon docket. Following brief presentations, victim input and staff recommendations, the board voted to grant pardons for the majority of applicants heard and denied a smaller number, with one case continued for more documentation.
The Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles held an absolute-pardon hearing July 8 by videoconference, reviewing dozens of applications and voting on each case before the panel.
The board, chaired by Nancy Turner, heard applicants who made brief personal statements or were represented by counsel, received input from the Office of Victim Services and reviewed prescreen findings from staff. Board members Michael Pohl and Raffaro Berry joined Turner in asking applicants about post‑conviction conduct, treatment and community ties before voting on each request.
Why it matters: Pardons considered at these hearings remove collateral barriers that can block employment, licensing and other civil opportunities. The board tentatively grants or denies pardons at the hearing; finalization requires record checks and administrative completion before a certificate is issued.
Key outcomes: After hearing each applicant, the board voted on individual cases. Among the applicants granted full and absolute pardons were James Masada; Kirk Reed; Jamal Radney Butler; Thembalila (Tamarisha) Bengu; Torrance Smith; Eddie Coleman; Tariq Ealy; Carlton Anderson; Rachel Cartagena; Delroy Coombs;…
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