New Jersey’s criminal justice system lacks equity and fairness, Governor Claims

Newark, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has signed Executive Order No. 362 to expedite the review process for certain clemency applications. This order includes specific categories such as non-violent convictions and cases involving excessive trial penalties. It aims to address systemic inequities in the criminal legal system.

The initiative, according to Murphy was enacted to benefit what he termed “black and brown” communities in New Jersey.

“As we celebrate Juneteenth and reflect on our nation’s ongoing journey toward racial justice for Black and Brown Americans, I am proud to sign this Executive Order to help address inequities and unfairness in our justice system in New Jersey,” said Governor Murphy. “This new clemency initiative is a cornerstone of our Administration’s efforts to make New Jersey the State of Second Chances. Today, we pledge to take a responsible and equity-driven approach to pardons and commutations that will prioritize the most compelling cases.”

“Crowding in our state prisons creates hurdles for safety, healthcare, and programming,” said Terry Schuster, New Jersey’s Corrections Ombudsperson. “Governor Murphy’s announcement today clears the path for people who can safely return home, and eases the burden on the Department of Corrections to manage and improve prison conditions.”

The order also establishes a Clemency Advisory Board to review applications and provide recommendations to the Governor. This board is the first of its kind in New Jersey and includes diverse members from various criminal justice backgrounds.

Governor Murphy highlighted the initiative as part of efforts to make New Jersey a state of second chances. He emphasized the importance of addressing inequities in the justice system.

“In New Jersey, we believe in second chances and giving our residents every opportunity to succeed,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “Governor Murphy’s creation of a Clemency Advisory Board and plan to ensure expedited consideration for a large number of worthy applicants demonstrates this administration’s commitment to those principles.

Lt. Governor Tahesha Way echoed this sentiment, noting the significance of the order in the ongoing struggle for racial justice. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and other officials also expressed support for the initiative, underscoring its potential to provide second chances and promote rehabilitation.

“Governor Murphy’s actions today are bigger than a new program or correcting a handful of injustices. This is an entirely new approach to clemency that is going to cut red tape and restore hope, dignity, and opportunity for people unjustly trapped in the system,” said Robert “Meek Mill” Williams, Co-Founder and Co-Chair, REFORM Alliance. “I know personally the life-changing impact that clemency can have. Today’s announcement means that many more people will have an opportunity to reunite with their families, get back on their feet, and chase their dreams. It takes true leadership to use executive power like this, and I applaud Governor Murphy for doing what’s right and taking this bold step.”

The Clemency Advisory Board’s appointed members include legal professionals, a university professor, and a police chaplain, among others. This initiative builds on previous reforms by the Murphy Administration aimed at providing second chances to justice-involved individuals.