Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles grants most applicants at Jan. 8 absolute-pardon session; several denials and one continued request

The Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles met by Zoom on Jan. 8, 2025, to hear absolute-pardon applications and voted on each case. Chairperson Jennifer Medina Zaccagnini opened the hearing by summarizing the board’s authority and the difference between an absolute pardon and a certificate of employability, noting the record checks required after a tentative grant (Jennifer Medina Zaccagnini, chairperson of the Board of Pardons and Paroles). The board heard applicants, reviewed attorney remarks, received victim input through the Office of Victim Services and then took votes.

Nut graf: The board tentatively granted pardons for most applicants at the hearing and denied a small number. Several cases included extended questioning about treatment and supervision; one contested hearing produced a denial after victims described lasting harms. One application (for Ryan Tapp) was continued so the board could pursue a restorative-justice outreach and receive further reporting from victim services.

Votes at a glance (applicant — outcome — key note) - Karen Palmer — granted — board moved to grant an absolute pardon after applicant and counsel described rehabilitation and cleared outstanding restitution. - Helen Caraballo — granted — applicant described work in health care and education goals; board voted aye. - John Marshall — granted — applicant described long sobriety and stable employment; board voted aye. - David Morgan — granted — applicant described education, promotion history and completion of probation and registry term; board voted aye. - Robert Valentine — granted — applicant described long period since conviction and steady business ownership. - Antonio (Ovega) Martinez III — granted — applicant described treatment class and no further contact with victim; board voted aye. - Edwin Torres — granted — applicant described business ownership and steady family involvement; board voted aye. - Kiwanah Carraway —…