Joe Biden Commutes Record 2,500 Drug-Related Sentences in Final Days of Presidency

The outgoing U.S. president cites disproportionate sentencing and outdated drug laws as reasons for the unprecedented clemency.

President Joe Biden announced the commutation of 2,500 sentences for non-violent drug offenses, marking a record for U.S. presidents.
The commutations aim to address disparities in sentencing, particularly those rooted in outdated distinctions between crack and powder cocaine.
Biden previously issued 39 pardons and 1,500 commutations in December, including reducing the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates.
The White House stated that Biden's actions are intended to provide relief to individuals serving excessively long sentences under outdated legal standards.
With three days remaining in his presidency, Biden has indicated he may grant additional clemencies before leaving office on January 20.