New Jersey Governor Murphy’s Pardons for Domestic Abuse Victims: A Step Towards Criminal Justice Reform

Handling handcuffs and unlocking with a key.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy grants first pardons, freeing three women convicted of murder in cases involving domestic abuse.

At a Glance

Gov. Murphy commuted sentences of three women convicted of killing abusive partners
First pardons of Murphy’s two-term administration, with more promised
Clemency advisory panel established to review cases of hardship or rehabilitation
Actions part of broader effort to address inequities in criminal justice system
33 individuals pardoned in total, focusing on nonviolent offenses and domestic abuse victims

Governor Murphy’s Landmark Decision

New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy has taken a significant step in criminal justice reform by issuing his first set of pardons since taking office in 2018. The governor commuted the sentences of three women who were convicted of murdering their abusive partners, marking a pivotal moment in his administration’s approach to addressing systemic injustices within the legal system.

The three women, Myrna Diaz, Dawn Jackson, and Denise Staples, are expected to be released by Wednesday. This action is part of a larger group of 33 individuals who received pardons, with a focus on nonviolent offenses and victims of domestic abuse. Governor Murphy described this as “the most momentous day” of his tenure, signaling a shift towards a more compassionate and equitable justice system.

🇺🇸NEW JERSEY GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY ISSUES FIRST PARDONS AFTER 7 YEARS

Murphy granted 33 pardons and 3 sentence commutations in his first act of clemency, nearly seven years into his term.

Most pardons addressed non-violent crimes like drug offenses and property crimes, while… pic.twitter.com/dplyCtZ7gY

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) December 17, 2024

A New Approach to Clemency

Six months prior to these pardons, Murphy’s administration established a clemency advisory panel to review cases deserving of pardon or commutation. This panel was tasked with weighing offenders’ claims of hardship or rehabilitation, prioritizing nonviolent offenders and those who were victims of domestic or sexual violence.

“As we approach the final year of our administration, we will continue embracing a fair, impartial and balanced approach for granting legal relief to New Jerseyans who have earned a second chance” – the governor

The governor’s actions align with a growing trend among Democratic governors using clemency to address specific groups of offenders. Similar initiatives have been seen in states like Oregon, Massachusetts, and Maryland, particularly regarding marijuana-related offenses.

Addressing Past Injustices

Murphy’s decision to pardon these women highlights a growing recognition of the complex circumstances surrounding domestic abuse cases. The clemency board found that those pardoned had accepted responsibility for their actions and had become positive examples in their communities.

“I think we’re a much more – thank God I might add – survivor-centric society.” – Gov. Phil Murphy

One of the commuted sentences belonged to Dawn Jackson, who had been serving a 30-year sentence since 1999 for a murder conviction. At the time of her trial, domestic violence factors were not considered. This case gained attention from high-profile advocates, including Kim Kardashian, who praised Murphy for choosing “redemption over condemnation.”

Phil Murphy pardons 33 and commutes sentences of 3 others incarcerated in NJ https://t.co/8WqiJIA9cS

— NorthJersey.com (@northjersey) December 16, 2024

Looking Ahead

With his second term set to end in January 2026 and unable to seek re-election due to term limits, Governor Murphy has pledged to continue this approach to clemency in his remaining time in office. Justin Dews, chairman of the advisory board, expressed hope that future governors would maintain this fair and balanced approach to clemency decisions.

“For the first time in our state’s history we can say that fairness and not favor is the guiding principle behind the governor’s clemency decisions” – Mr. Dews

These pardons represent a significant shift in New Jersey’s criminal justice policy, focusing on rehabilitation, second chances, and addressing the unique circumstances of domestic abuse survivors. As the state moves towards a more equitable system, these actions may set a precedent for future administrations and potentially influence similar reforms across the country.