New York Governor Issues Pardons for 19 People

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that her office has issued pardons to 19 rehabilitated people across New York State.

The announcement, made on Friday, May 8th, 2026, granted clemency to 19 individuals ranging in age from 35 to 75 years old with convictions dating back as far as 1971. Each person selected has demonstrated rehabilitation, remorse, and a commitment to improving both themselves and their communities.

Governor Hochul Grants 19 Pardons in New York

According to the governor, a Clemency Advisory Panel composed of impartial experts convened and assisted her office in reviewing clemency applications before the 19 pardons were issued.

Officials say the individuals receiving pardons have lived crime-free lives for significant periods of time, in many cases for more than 20 years after completing their sentences. Many still face challenges connected to their past convictions despite rebuilding their lives and becoming productive members of their communities.

“Since taking office, my administration has taken a number of steps to bring more effective, fair, and thorough analysis to New York’s clemency program,” Hochul said in a statement. “After careful consideration and analysis by a panel of independent experts, I am granting clemency in the form of a pardon to 19 individuals who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation.”

Since taking office, Hochul has granted a total of 139 acts of clemency, including 119 pardons and 20 commutations.

Who Received a Pardon in New York?

Among those receiving pardons were individuals convicted decades ago for crimes including robbery, drug possession and sales, forgery, burglary, weapons charges, and other offenses.

SEE ALSO: Families in New York Could See $1,700 Refunds Soon

Some of the pardons granted include:

• Dr. Mikal Abdul-Mateen, convicted of attempted robbery in 1971
• Joseph Percoco, convicted of grand larceny in 1985
• Daniel Wagoner, convicted of criminally negligent homicide in 1995
• Amanda Mullen, convicted of forgery and identity theft in 2010
• Adrian Peña, convicted of burglary in 2015

State officials say the pardons are intended to help remove barriers many recipients still face involving employment, housing, education, and other opportunities despite years of living crime-free.

The full list of pardon recipients is available online.