Victims express shock and anger after the President commutes the sentences of two controversial figures involved in major corruption cases

Victims of high-profile corruption scandals in Pennsylvania and Illinois have expressed outrage after President Joe Biden granted clemency to two convicted officials, including the infamous “kids-for-cash” judge, Michael Conahan. Biden announced the commutations Thursday as part of a historic package for 1,500 individuals who, according to the White House, “deserve a second chance” following their good behaviour during house arrest.

Conahan was convicted in 2011 for taking kickbacks from for-profit detention centres, leading to the wrongful incarceration of thousands of juveniles. His actions were part of the notorious “kids-for-cash” scandal, one of Pennsylvania’s most shameful judicial crises. Conahan, alongside his fellow judge, was sentenced to 17 years in prison, but like many others, he was released early due to the COVID-19 pandemic and was under house arrest. His sentence, originally set to end in 2026, has now been commuted by Biden, sparking outrage from victims and their families.

Sandy Fonzo, mother of Edward Kenzakoski, who tragically took his own life after being wrongfully incarcerated due to Conahan’s corrupt scheme, expressed her shock and pain upon hearing the news. “Conahan’s actions destroyed families, including mine, and my son’s death is a tragic reminder of his abuse of power,” Fonzo told local media. “This pardon feels like an injustice for all of us who still suffer.”

Biden’s decision to grant clemency also extends to a notorious Illinois fraudster, who embezzled $54 million before being caught. Both cases have led to public outcry, with victims questioning the fairness of granting clemency to individuals involved in such serious corruption.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, joined in the criticism, stating, “I do feel strongly that President Biden got it absolutely wrong and created a lot of pain here in northeastern Pennsylvania.”

While Biden’s administration defends the decision, citing uniform criteria for clemency based on good conduct, the move has raised questions about the president’s approach to justice, especially after his controversial pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, earlier this year.

The backlash highlights the emotional toll on the victims, many of whom continue to grapple with the lasting consequences of the corruption they endured.