Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced Friday that 43 individuals across the state have been granted clemency, a decision made in collaboration with the Tennessee Board of Parole. These pardons represent official statements of forgiveness for individuals who have long since completed their sentences and successfully reintegrated into their communities.

According to Erin Merrick, Chief Counsel to Governor Lee, all those granted clemency have been living law-abiding lives in the community for over five years. Notably, none of the pardons involve sex-related offenses or crimes committed against minors.

The Board of Parole overwhelmingly supported the clemency decisions, with near-unanimous recommendations in favor of the pardons. Merrick added that many of the offenses were decades old, with few involving crimes against individuals.

This action reflects a measured approach to clemency, offering forgiveness to those who have demonstrated meaningful rehabilitation while emphasizing public safety and accountability.