In this May 18 photo taken in Dallas, Texas, Governor Greg Abbott addresses the audience. The Austin American-Statesman featured a collection of letters from local Texans on Sunday, criticizing Abbott’s recent pardon of U.S. Army Sergeant Daniel Perry. [Image Source: JUSTIN SULLIVAN/GETTY IMAGES]
May 25, 2024 Story by: Editor
The Austin American-Statesman recently featured a collection of letters denouncing Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to pardon U.S. Army Sergeant Daniel Perry. Perry was convicted of the murder of protester Garrett Foster during a Black Lives Matter rally in July 2020. Despite a jury’s guilty verdict and a 25-year prison sentence, Abbott granted Perry a pardon after what was described as an “exhaustive review.”
The pardon, unanimously recommended by the Texas Pardons and Paroles Board, appointed by Abbott, drew sharp criticism from Texas residents. David Anderson from Austin labeled it a “dive off the cliff” away from justice. Shari Chambers, also from Austin, highlighted the disregard for the jury’s decision and questioned Abbott’s interference in the judicial process. Aaron McIntyre from Westlake Hills condemned Abbott’s move as a political stunt that undermines the justice system’s integrity.
The Austin American-Statesman’s editorial board echoed similar sentiments, expressing concern over Abbott’s intervention in a case where Perry’s guilt had been determined by a jury. The board highlighted Abbott’s public interest in pardoning Perry even before his sentencing, suggesting a political motive behind the decision.
Abbott’s leniency towards gun laws and his support base were also noted, with statistics indicating a majority of Texans approve of him, despite the controversy surrounding Perry’s pardon. Source: Newsweek
