Clemency board unanimously recommends commutation for man serving life under Washington’s three‑strikes law

The Washington State Clemency and Pardons Board voted unanimously June 2026 to recommend commutation for Carlton Rudolph, a 68‑year‑old serving life without parole under Washington’s persistent‑offender regime. Board Member Aileen Flower moved for the recommendation and Board Member Rhonda Salvesen seconded; the motion carried 5–0.

Rudolph told the board he is remorseful and has taken responsibility for his crimes. "I am truly sorry for the failure and harm I caused you," he said, addressing the victim’s family and describing educational and mentorship work he has done in prison, including publishing a newsletter called Think Positive and earning multiple certificates and a GED at age 63. He described medical issues, including anterior cervical fusion in March 2025, and a reentry plan that would rely on the Seattle Clemency Project and Department of Corrections transitional supports.

His attorney, Justin Gray, asked the board to apply the statutory commutation standard — whether a sentence "no longer serves the interest of justice." Gray cited a recent court of appeals opinion, State v. Dugan, and data he said show the three‑strikes law has disproportionately affected people of color, arguing those systemic factors and Rudolph’s record of transformation support clemency. "Given the extraordinary nature of what he’s done while incarcerated," Gray told members, "I’d ask you all to vote in favor of clemency for Carlton."

Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Joseph Jackson declined to recommend for or against commutation. Jackson said he and defense counsel had explored whether resentencing would be available under the prosecutor‑initiated resentencing statute but concluded Rudolph’s out‑of‑state convictions appear comparable to robbery in the first degree, so resentencing would not change a life without parole outcome. Jackson cited victims’ injuries and the overall pattern of violent offenses across multiple states in urging the board to weigh public safety concerns.

In deliberations board members repeatedly acknowledged the severity of Rudolph’s prior crimes across three states but emphasized his sustained rehabilitation in custody, his age and health, and the positive letters from supporters. Vice Chair Doug Baldwin said he was persuaded by Rudolph’s transformation and the practical indications that further incarceration may no longer serve the interest of justice. Flower added an addendum requesting that, if commutation is recommended and later granted, the board ask authorities to facilitate Rudolph’s travel to visit his aging mother as soon as practicable.

The board’s recommendation is advisory; the governor has final authority on commutation. The board’s action sends a unanimous suggestion to the governor’s office that Rudolph’s sentence be commuted, and it recorded the motion and 5–0 vote on the public record before adjourning the case.

What happens next: The board’s recommendation will be transmitted to the governor’s office for final decision. No timetable was set during the hearing.