TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy on Monday pardoned 33 people and commuted the sentences of three women, one of whom was supported by Kim Kardashianin the first exercise of the power of pardon during his administration.
Grace comes later Murphy appointed a special review committee in June is intended to refer cases deserving pardon or leniency for reconsideration, and this will be the first of the additional graces – said the voivode.
Murphy said he wanted New Jersey to become known for righting past injustices in a sometimes emotional ceremony in which at least one pardoned person was in attendance, as well as two adult children of one of the women convicted of murder.
“We rededicate ourselves to ensuring that New Jersey is a state where second chances can be expected,” he said.
The emotional climax came when Murphy was discussing Dawn Jackson, whose case Kardashian was defending. As Murphy spoke, someone handed Jackson’s daughter a tissue to wipe a tear, saying that Jackson earned her GED and associate’s degree in prison, where she has been serving a 30-year sentence for murder since 1999. Murphy found that in three of the women’s sentence commutation cases, including Jackson’s, there was domestic violence which did not play a mitigating role at the time of sentencing.
“I think we are a much more – thank God, I might add – survivor-focused society,” he said.
Loreale (*33*), Jackson’s daughter, said the experience gave her a sense of perseverance.
“I can’t put into words what this means to me, but I am completely lost for words, overwhelmed with joy and can’t wait to experience all that God has for us,” she said.
Kardashian who she used her fame to gain attention on criminal justice reform, said in a statement that Murphy chose “redemption over condemnation.”
“Dawn’s second chance and impending freedom show us what is possible when we focus on supporting survivors, prioritizing safety and committing to real justice,” Kardashian said.
Abdur Azim stood next to Murphy, smiling as Murphy signed his pardon. He told the governor that getting a pardon was like “pulling a knife out of your heart.” Azim had been convicted of shoplifting, drug possession and robbery since 1986. He currently works for the Department of Corrections, the governor said.
Along with Azim, Murphy pardoned 32 other people who had a range of convictions including shoplifting, menacing and drug possession. Murphy said the clemency board he appointed found that each of them “accepted responsibility for their actions” and set positive examples for others in their community.
Murphy’s second term ends in January 2026. Term limits prevent him from seeking a third term in next year’s gubernatorial election.
