OK, let's be honest. My cynicism wasn't really on the verge of being shaken.
But really. Even after the unanimous recommendation of the Parole Board. Who'd a thunk?
I mean, Governor Ted granted and denied (mostly denied, of course, but that's not the point here) commutations seemingly at random. And he was alleged to be secretly opposed to the death penalty. (Or secretly a fan of it. Depended on who you talked to.)
But you have to figure Kasich is an honest supporter - not the Shrub or his successor with the good hair, he-who-wants-to-be-President Perry, certainly - but an honest supporter.
And then, albeit with that unanimous recommendation for cover/support, he goes and does this.
I mean, really.
When Joey isn't factually innocent. But just because it's the right thing to do.
And after commuting Kenneth Smith.
And granting reprieves (though perhaps at the request of the killers at the DRC or of the Attorney General, but still) to Brett Hartmann & Billy Slagle.
I am not sure whether to be incredibly proud or deeply troubled that Ohio's Governor Kasich has now in the last three months made more profound and effective use of his state clemency authority in just the last three months than US President Barack Obama has in over the last three years.
So yeah, I'm still cynical. But pleasantly surprised.
Keep it going John. Reginald Brooks is set for November. Do your stuff.
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If I was Murphy, I'd be thrilled that, not only am I commuted to just the rest of my life in some Ohio cinderblock box, but it was done so in a manner suitable for framing.
ReplyDeleteBecause this is done in such a snappy fashion, I must tell you that the governor had me at "To all to whom these presents shall come, Greeting..."
If it were me, I'd be saying "It sucks to be in prison for the rest of my life, but damn, that's some great typography."
According to the Columbus Dispatch, when the Parole Board recommended a commutation to LWOP, Murphy said it was “the best news I had in my whole life. Finally, somebody has given me a chance.”
ReplyDeleteAnd great fonts just a few days later!