Biden commuted 37 death sentences and seeks to reform the criminal justice system in the U.S.

The President of the United States, Joe Biden, has made a groundbreaking decision by commuting the death sentences of 37 out of 40 individuals sentenced to this penalty at the federal level, a measure that comes less than a month before his departure from the White House. This decision not only marks a milestone in his administration but also reflects a shift in policy regarding the death penalty in a country that still faces a deep debate on the issue. In a statement issued by the White House, it was reported that the commuted sentences will be converted to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Biden, who has been an advocate for reforming the criminal justice system for much of his career, has chosen to take a firm step towards the abolition of the death penalty at the federal level, except in the most extreme cases related to terrorism and hate-motivated mass murders. The Democratic president has been a pioneer in offering more commutations at this stage of his presidency than any of his predecessors, demonstrating a more compassionate and humane approach compared to previous policies. Since taking office in January 2021, Biden imposed a moratorium on federal executions, acting in contrast to the administration of his predecessor, Donald Trump, who resumed executions after a 17-year hiatus. Biden emphasized in his message that his decision aims to align with the moratorium that has been applied to cases not related to acts of terrorism or hate crimes. By doing so, he hopes to leave a positive mark on the criminal justice system, which has historically faced criticism for its handling of violent crimes and the racial and economic disparities in sentencing. Among those benefiting from this decision are several Latinos, as well as others convicted of serious crimes, including Jorge Avila-Torrez, a member of the Mara Salvatrucha gang who was convicted of the murder of two girls and a naval officer. This decision, which has elicited mixed reactions, is viewed by some as a step toward restorative justice, while others criticize the commutation of sentences for violent criminals. Biden expressed his sorrow for the victims of these crimes, emphasizing that his decision does not diminish the suffering of the affected families. "I condemn these murderers, I mourn the victims of their despicable acts, and I am sorry for all the families that have suffered unimaginable and irreparable losses," he stated, reaffirming his commitment to deeper reform of the system of justice. The announcement comes in a context where the death penalty has been abolished in 23 states, and another six states maintain a moratorium. Biden has shown his intention to continue fighting for comprehensive reform that includes the elimination of the death penalty nationwide. In recent years, the use of the death penalty has declined, reflecting a change in public opinion and an increase in judicial reform initiatives. The three inmates who did not benefit from the commutation are high-profile cases: Djokhar Tsarnaev, Dylann Roof, and Robert Bowers, who have been convicted of acts of terrorism and hate crimes that shocked the nation. These cases underscore the complexity of the debate on the death penalty, where ethical, moral, and security considerations coexist in a delicate balance. Biden's decision, which adds to his recent pardon of approximately 1,500 individuals convicted of non-violent offenses, is being seen as a clear attempt by his administration to promote a more humane and rehabilitative approach to criminal justice. By addressing the issue of the death penalty, Biden also seeks to challenge the narrative that justice must be synonymous with retribution rather than redemption. The future of the death penalty in the United States remains uncertain, but the steps taken by the Biden administration suggest a direction toward reducing its use. As the end of his presidency approaches, Biden's legacy regarding criminal justice will be marked by his firm opposition to the death penalty and his effort to transform a system that many consider outdated and failed.