President Obama Grants 79 More Commutations, Including Nine Florida Inmates

Published

10 years ago

November 22, 2016

WASHINGTON, D.C. (FNN NEWS) – Today, the President granted commutation of sentence to the following 79 individuals: (including nine inmates from Florida)

Lawrence Daro Adams – Houston, TX
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, aiding and abetting; Southern District of Texas
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release; $5,000 fine (July 20, 2001)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Tyrone Allen – Lubbock, TX
Offense: Aiding and abetting possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of cocaine base; Western District of Texas
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (March 25, 2003)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Anthony Arthur – Killeen, TX
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 50 grams of “crack cocaine”; Western District of Texas
Sentence: 210 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release; $1,000 fine (August 3, 2005)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Lisa Woods Ball – Sugar Grove, VA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine; Western District of Virginia
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (March 3, 2009)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 188 months’ imprisonment.

Curtis A. Beasley – Greer, SC
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five grams or more but less than 50 grams of crack cocaine; possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of crack cocaine; District of South Carolina
Sentence: 408 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (August 16, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Efrem Berry – Americus, GA
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute a detectable amount of cocaine; possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana; possession with intent to distribute a detectable amount of 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine, aka MDMA; Middle District of Georgia
Sentence: 235 months’ imprisonment; six years’ supervised release (November 9, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 151 months’ imprisonment.

Albert Betemit – New York, NY
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute in excess of five kilograms of powder cocaine and 50 grams of cocaine base; possession with intent to distribute cocaine (three counts); distribution of cocaine; possession with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of cocaine base (two counts); distribution in excess of 50 grams of cocaine base (two counts); unlawful use of a communication facility; Eastern District of Virginia
Sentence: Life imprisonment; four years’ supervised release (September 25, 1996)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 300 months’ imprisonment.

Carroll Edgar Blevins, Jr. – Abingdon, VA
Offense:
1. Distribution of methamphetamine (two counts); Western District of Virginia
2. Supervised release violation (possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (two counts)); Western District of VirginiaSentence:
1. 188 months’ imprisonment; six years’ supervised release (November 3, 2006)
2. 51 months’ imprisonment (consecutive); one year’s supervised release (November 3, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Kerwin Blount – New Haven, CT
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base; District of Connecticut
Sentence: 292 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (May 18, 2000)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Tramiere Broughton – Clinton, IA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute cocaine base (“crack”); Southern District of Iowa
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (October 3, 2002)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Thomas Brown – Miami, FL
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute at least five kilograms of cocaine; Southern District of Florida
Sentence: Life imprisonment (October 24, 1989)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2017.

Christopher Carlton Bryson – Davenport, IA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin and marijuana, each a schedule I controlled substance, and cocaine and cocaine base (“crack”), each a schedule II controlled substance; money laundering; Southern District of Iowa
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (February 9, 2001)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Earl Cain – Springfield, MA
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; District of Massachusetts
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (February 15, 2001)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Christopher Michael Calloway – Hampton, VA
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute cocaine base; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; Eastern District of Virginia
Sentence: 181 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (June 18, 2007); amended to 180 months’ imprisonment (June 9, 2008)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Jermaine Lewis Carter – Davenport, IA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute at least 50 grams of cocaine base; Southern District of Iowa
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (April 24, 2009)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 180 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Jimmy Carter, Jr. – Montgomery, AL
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; possession with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride (two counts); possession of cocaine hydrochloride; possession with intent to distribute cocaine base; Middle District of Alabama
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (September 23, 2003)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 240 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Mark Clifton – Brooklyn, NY
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (crack); possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (crack) and aiding and abetting; Eastern District of North Carolina
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release; $7,500 fine (May 28, 1997)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, and unpaid balance of $7,500 fine remitted, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Dewayne Damper – Fontana, CA
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute “crack” cocaine base; Southern District of Mississippi
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release; $4,500 fine (April 20, 1999); amended to 360 months’ imprisonment; six years’ supervised release; $4,500 fine (May 12, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Johnny Davis – Florence, SC
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of five kilograms or more of cocaine and 50 grams or more of cocaine base, commonly known as crack cocaine; District of South Carolina
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (February 4, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Roy Edward Detreville, Jr. – Winter Garden, FL
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine; Middle District of Florida
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (February 8, 2005)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Luis Diaz – Winter Park, FL
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride; Middle District of Florida
Sentence: Life imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (July 25, 1996); amended to 360 months’ imprisonment (July 1, 2015)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

William Henry Dudley – Atlanta, GA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; Northern District of Florida
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release; $1,000 fine (April 27, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Reginald Leon Edwards – Chatham, VA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; Western District of Virginia
Sentence: 181 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release; $400 fine (August 3, 2007); amended to 180 months’ imprisonment (October 22, 2008)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Timothy John Ehrmann – Minneapolis, MN
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and ecstasy; aiding and abetting to distribute ecstasy (two counts); aiding and abetting to distribute methamphetamine (three counts); possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; District of Minnesota
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (March 5, 2004); amended to 292 months’ imprisonment (September 12, 2016)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 228 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

P.W. Ferguson – Columbia, SC
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of 50 grams or more of cocaine base; possession with intent to distribute and distribution of a quantity of cocaine base, aiding and abetting; District of South Carolina
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (May 31, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Darryl D. Fields – Harvey, IL
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine; Northern District of Iowa
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (June 8, 2009)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Timothy Fields – Mesquite, TX
Offense: Conspiracy; possession with intent to distribute controlled substance, aiding and abetting (three counts); use and carry firearm during drug trafficking crime; Northern District of Texas
Sentence: Life plus 60 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (February 16, 1994)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 465 months’ imprisonment.

Tyris Ford – Philadelphia, PA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute cocaine base (“crack”); distribution of cocaine base (“crack”) or possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”); carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime; Eastern District of Pennsylvania
Sentence: 300 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (January 5, 2001)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Eric Cornell Foster – Bladensburg, MD
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine; Eastern District of Michigan
Sentence: Life imprisonment (December 11, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 175 months’ imprisonment.

Osvaldo Richard Gonzalez – Sylmar, CA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine; possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense; Southern District of Iowa
Sentence: 180 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (September 7, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Jamere Ireadus Hall – Kissimmee, FL
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base; felon in possession of firearm; District of Maryland
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (August 1, 2005)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 210 months’ imprisonment.

Avery Hardy – Smithville, GA
Offense: Possession with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of crack cocaine; Middle District of Georgia
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (January 12, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Donikki Hardy – Pacolet, SC
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine; District of South Carolina
Sentence: 480 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (November 26, 2002); amended to 300 months’ imprisonment (October 28, 2008); amended to 299 months’ imprisonment (February 5, 2014)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

William Crawford Hardy, III – Roanoke, VA
Offense: Distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base; Western District of Virginia
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (February 7, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Robert Jeffrey Harris – Fort Walton Beach, FL
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base; Northern District of Florida
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (December 12, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 210 months’ imprisonment.

Jeff Hendricks – Seagoville, TX
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine; conspiracy to possess a List I chemical to manufacture methamphetamine; Northern District of Texas
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (May 9, 2002); amended to 324 months’ imprisonment (April 1, 2016)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Warren Lavell Jackson – Port St. Lucie, FL
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute cocaine; Southern District of Florida
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (March 7, 2000)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 300 months’ imprisonment.

Timothy Johnson – Georgetown, SC
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of cocaine base; possession with intent to distribute cocaine base; using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime; District of South Carolina
Sentence: 180 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (February 28, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Paul Kinney – Anaheim, CA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute in excess of 500 grams of methamphetamine; Eastern District of Missouri
Sentence: 235 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (April 19, 2006); amended to 210 months’ imprisonment (December 19, 2014)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Daniel Lee Larsen – West Valley City, UT
Offense: Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute; conspiracy or attempt to manufacture methamphetamine (two counts); establishment of a manufacture operation; possession of a listed chemical (two counts); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense; District of Utah
Sentence: 384 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release; $2,000 restitution (January 7, 2002)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 270 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Darrius Lewis – McComb, MS
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute cocaine base; Southern District of Mississippi
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; three years’ supervised release (May 20, 2005)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 188 months’ imprisonment.

Robert Lum – Waimanalo, HI
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute in excess of 50 grams of methamphetamine; District of Hawaii
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (November 28, 2005)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Karliss Lyttle – St. Louis, MO
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of cocaine base; distribution of less than five grams of cocaine base (two counts); Southern District of Illinois
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release; $500 fine (April 22, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Ryan W. Magro – Dunstable, MA
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; District of Massachusetts
Sentence: 180 months’ imprisonment; three years’ supervised release (May 22, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Orlando Keith McCord – Flint, MI
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of cocaine base; Eastern District of Michigan
Sentence: 180 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (April 19, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Donna Sue McDaniel – Boyd, TX
Offense: Distribution of 219.6 grams of methamphetamine; Northern District of Texas
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (September 27, 1996)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

John E. McNeill – Washington, DC
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of phencyclidine, commonly known as PCP; conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of phencyclidine, commonly known as PCP; District of Kansas
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (February 23, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Frantz Michel – Brooklyn, NY
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute heroin, cocaine, and cocaine base; Eastern District of Virginia
Sentence: Life imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (January 31, 2003); amended to 300 months’ imprisonment (November 1, 2011); amended to 235 months’ imprisonment (November 2, 2015)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Vernard Mitchell – Washington, DC
Offense: Unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a person convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year; unlawful possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of cocaine base; unlawful possession with intent to distribute heroin; unlawful possession with intent to distribute cannabis; District of Columbia
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (March 30, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 210 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Robert L. Moffitt – Fort Worth, TX
Offense: Conspiracy to possess and distribute cocaine base; distribution of cocaine base; maintaining a drug-involved premises (two counts); Northern District of Texas
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; six years’ supervised release (April 10, 2006); amended to 292 months’ imprisonment (January 12, 2012)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 180 months’ imprisonment.

Ward Everette Mohler – Linville, VA
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine; distribution of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (three counts); carry firearm during drug trafficking (two counts); possession of firearm by a convicted felon (two counts); distribution of methamphetamine (nine counts); Western District of Virginia
Sentence: 469 months’ imprisonment; three years’ supervised release (April 23, 1992); amended to 436 months’ imprisonment (March 18, 2016)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on December 22, 2016.

Michael Toriano Morris – Charlotte, NC
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute cocaine and cocaine base; Western District of North Carolina
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (August 19, 2004); amended to 292 months’ imprisonment (November 23, 2015)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Jerry Lee Mutchler – Riverton, IA
Offense: Conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine; Southern District of Iowa
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (February 4, 2005)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Victor Robert Nava, Sr. – Billings, MT
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana; distribution of marijuana; possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute; distribution of hydrocodone; possession of morphine with intent to distribute; possession of codeine with intent to distribute; District of Montana
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (May 22, 2002)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 270 months’ imprisonment.

Cathy Lea Neal – Council Bluffs, IA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture and 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine; Northern District of Iowa
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised (September 24, 2009)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on May 21, 2017.

Jose Otero – Worcester, MA
Offense: Possession of cocaine with intent to distribute; District of Massachusetts
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (June 29, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Tilman Rufus Partin – Frakes, KY
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute cocaine; possession with intent to distribute cocaine, aiding and abetting; Eastern District of Kentucky
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (October 10, 1997)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 324 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Mario A. Powell – Kansas City, MO
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of “crack” cocaine; Western District of Missouri
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (April 16, 2009)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Roosevelt Terence Jerome Rayford – Sherman, TX
Offense: Conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, possess, or dispense cocaine base (crack) or marijuana; Eastern District of Texas
Sentence: 326 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release; $2,000 fine (July 1, 2003); amended to 300 months’ imprisonment (April 29, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 188 months’ imprisonment.

Eddie James Reed – Albany, GA
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base; possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of cocaine base; Middle District of Georgia
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (February 28, 2008)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Jose Rodriguez – Camden, NJ
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin and more than 50 grams of cocaine base; District of New Jersey
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release; $10,000 fine (April 27, 2006); amended to 235 months’ imprisonment (August 28, 2015)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017 and unpaid balance of the $10,000 fine remitted.

Cynthia Valdez Shank – Lansing, MI
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute more than five kilograms of powder cocaine, 50 grams of cocaine base, and/or 1,000 kilograms of marijuana; possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base (crack cocaine); possession with intent to distribute 40 pounds of marijuana; Western District of Michigan
Sentence: 180 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release; $10,000 fine (February 29, 2008)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017, and unpaid balance of the $10,000 fine remitted.

Artis Sherman – Allen, TX
Offense: Conspiracy in the possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of crack cocaine; Western District of Texas
Sentence: 300 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (November 30, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Carnell Smith – Hazel Crest, IL
Offense:
1. Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute mixtures containing cocaine; Northern District of Illinois
2. Possession of a prohibited object by a prison inmate; Eastern District of Arkansas
Sentence:
1. 262 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (February 11, 2001)
2. Seven months’ imprisonment (consecutive) (January 5, 2012)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Marco Strickland – Detroit, MI
Offense: Attempted possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; Eastern District of Michigan
Sentence: Life imprisonment (October 24, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to 168 months’ imprisonment.

Tony Taylor – Dunn, NC
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base (crack); distribution and possession with intent to distribute more than five grams of cocaine base (crack) (five counts); distribution and possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of cocaine base (crack); Eastern District of North Carolina
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (December 4, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 293 months’ imprisonment.

Deborah Theeler – Sioux City, IA
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine mixture and 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine following two prior felony convictions; Northern District of Iowa
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (September 18, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Damarlon Cenaka Thomas – Saginaw, MI
Offense: Distribution of five grams or more of cocaine base; Eastern District of Michigan
Sentence: 230 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (November 20, 2008)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Dexter Bert Tyson – Orlando, FL
Offense: Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a mixture containing cocaine base and a mixture containing cocaine; possession with intent to distribute a mixture containing cocaine base and cocaine, aiding and abetting; possession with intent to distribute a mixture containing cocaine, aiding and abetting (two counts); possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, aiding and abetting; possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, aiding and abetting, felon in possession of a firearm; felon in possession of ammunition; District of Maryland
Sentence: Life plus 60 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (January 13, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 300 months’ imprisonment.

Lavan Maurice Walker – Miami, FL
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute a detectable amount of heroin (two counts); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; Southern District of Florida
Sentence: 420 months’ imprisonment; six years’ supervised release (March 9, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Jamie Warfield – Cape Girardeau, MO
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (two counts); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; Eastern District of Missouri
Sentence: 180 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (July 20, 2005)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on May 21, 2017

Lamar Webster – Concord, CA
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; money laundering conspiracy; money laundering; District of Montana
Sentence: Life imprisonment (April 17, 2009)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 240 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Sterling Kenneth Westberry – Pensacola, FL
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base; Northern District of Florida
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (September 15, 1998)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Travis L. Wilken – Midvale, UT
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of actual methamphetamine; District of Utah
Sentence: 235 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (February 2, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on November 22, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Derrick Maurice Williams – Durham, NC
Offense: Possessed with intent to distribute cocaine base (crack); Middle District of North Carolina
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; five years’ supervised release (November 2, 2000)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on May 21, 2017.

Jacobi Lamont Williams – Greensboro, NC
Offense: Distributed cocaine base (crack); Middle District of North Carolina
Sentence: 262 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (August 24, 2006)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 188 months’ imprisonment, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment.

Nelson Williams – Hammond, LA
Offense: Possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (two counts); distribution of cocaine base; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; Eastern District of Louisiana
Sentence: 240 months’ imprisonment; eight years’ supervised release (July 21, 2004)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to expire on March 22, 2017.

Darvell D. York – Chicago, IL
Offense: Delivery of a controlled substance; Northern District of Illinois
Sentence: 360 months’ imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (January 8, 2007)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 240 months’ imprisonment.

Myron Young – Louisville, KY
Offense: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; Western District of Kentucky
Sentence: Life imprisonment; 10 years’ supervised release (July 20, 2010)

Commutation Grant: Prison sentence commuted to a term of 240 months’ imprisonment.

Vilchez Santiago Wins Union Backing; Daisy Morales Says Voters — Not Political Endorsements — Decide Elections

Published

4 days ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 intensified this week after candidate Samuel Vilchez Santiago announced endorsements from a coalition of labor organizations, prompting former State Rep. Daisy Morales to respond that while endorsements are important, elections are ultimately decided by voters.

Vilchez Santiago announced support from 12 labor organizations, including the Florida AFL-CIO, Central Florida AFL-CIO, SEIU Florida, the Florida Education Association, the Orange County Fire Fighters Association, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1625, the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association, the United Auto Workers, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 606, the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 517, SMART Transportation Division PAC, and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1596.

“I am incredibly honored to earn the support of these outstanding labor organizations,” Vilchez Santiago said.

He said the endorsements were especially meaningful because he grew up in a union household.

“These endorsements are deeply personal to me. As someone who grew up in a union household, I understand firsthand that unions create pathways into the middle class and give working families the opportunity to build a better future.”

Vilchez Santiago said he would continue advocating for workers’ rights and policies that strengthen Florida’s middle class if elected.

Morales Congratulates Opponent, Recognizes Union Members

In response, Morales congratulated Vilchez Santiago on receiving the endorsements while recognizing the contributions of organized labor across Florida.

“I congratulate Mr. Vilchez Santiago on earning the support of these organizations and appreciate every group that participates in our democratic process,” Morales said.

Morales praised union members working as teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, skilled trades workers, transportation employees and others who contribute to Florida’s economy.

“Every worker deserves respect, opportunity, safe workplaces, fair wages, and the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.”

Morales Points to 2020 Democratic Primary

Morales said endorsements are valued but do not determine election outcomes.

She cited the 2020 Democratic Primary for Florida House District 48, when Vilchez Santiago received endorsements from elected officials, political organizations and advocacy groups before Morales defeated him and three other Democratic candidates to win the Democratic nomination.

Following that election, Florida Politics wrote that endorsements “didn’t matter” after Morales emerged victorious.

“That election demonstrated a principle that remains true today,” Morales said. “Political endorsements are valued expressions of support, but they never replace the judgment of the voters. The people—not political insiders or special interests—have the final say on Election Day.”

Morales later won the general election and represented House District 48 from 2020 to 2022.

Contrasting Campaign Messages

The exchange highlights the different messages each campaign is emphasizing as the Aug. 18 Democratic primary approaches.

Vilchez Santiago has focused on labor support, workers’ rights, affordability, housing, healthcare and reducing the influence of special interests.

Morales has centered her campaign on her legislative experience, bipartisan record and accomplishments during her term in the Florida House.

Morales said her official legislative record includes sponsoring and co-sponsoring more than 110 bills during the 2021 and 2022 legislative sessions and helping secure more than $12.5 million in state appropriations supporting higher education, healthcare, workforce development, nonprofit organizations, infrastructure improvements and community projects.

Among the legislative priorities Morales highlighted were educational opportunities for disabled veterans, property tax relief, consumer protection, public safety, workforce development, healthcare initiatives, infrastructure investments and services benefiting veterans, seniors and individuals with disabilities.

“Working families deserve representatives who deliver results—not just campaign promises,” Morales said.

Leadership and Experience

Morales said voters should evaluate candidates based on their accomplishments in public office.

“There is a clear difference in this race. My opponent is asking voters to consider who has endorsed his campaign. I am asking voters to examine my record of public service, legislative accomplishments, and proven results. Experience matters because results matter.”

She encouraged voters to review her official legislative record on the Florida House of Representatives website, which includes sponsored and co-sponsored legislation, committee assignments, voting history and appropriations.

Primary Election Approaches

The Democratic primary for Florida House District 43 will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2026, with early voting scheduled for Aug. 3–16. The winner will advance to the Nov. 3 general election.

House District 43 includes portions of east Orange County, including Azalea Park, Union Park, Alafaya, Orlando, Rio Pinar and surrounding communities.

Both campaigns are expected to continue emphasizing their respective strengths as voters begin casting ballots in one of Central Florida’s most closely watched Democratic legislative primaries.

Central Florida News

Orlando Begins Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget Review, Addresses Property Tax Reform and Future Spending

Published

4 days ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — The City of Orlando will officially begin its Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget process on Monday, July 13, with a public budget workshop outlining Mayor Buddy Dyer’s proposed spending plan for the coming fiscal year.

City officials said the proposed budget is balanced, does not increase the city’s millage rate, and continues to prioritize the core municipal services residents rely on every day.

Budget Workshop Scheduled for July 13

The budget process begins with a workshop at 10 a.m. in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of Orlando City Hall.

During the workshop, Mayor Buddy Dyer and members of the Orlando City Council will receive an overview of the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget from Chief Financial Officer Jose Fernandez and Assistant Chief Financial Officer Jason Wojkiewicz.

In addition to presenting the proposed spending plan, city financial officials will discuss proposed property tax reform and its potential impact on future city budgets and long-term financial planning.

Public Hearings Scheduled for September

Following the budget workshop, Orlando residents will have opportunities to provide public input during two public hearings in September.

Budget Hearing No. 1

Monday, Sept. 14, 2026
5:01 p.m.
City Council Chambers, Orlando City Hall

During the first hearing, the City Council is expected to adopt a proposed millage rate and establish a tentative Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget and Capital Improvement Program.

Budget Hearing No. 2

Monday, Sept. 28, 2026
5:01 p.m.
City Council Chambers, Orlando City Hall

The second and final public hearing will include the City Council’s vote to adopt the final millage rate, Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget and Capital Improvement Program.

Budget Takes Effect Oct. 1

If approved, Orlando’s Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget will take effect on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, marking the beginning of the city’s new fiscal year.

FY 2026-27 Budget Timeline

Monday, July 13 — Budget Workshop (10 a.m.)
Monday, Sept. 14 — First Public Budget Hearing (5:01 p.m.)
Monday, Sept. 28 — Final Public Budget Hearing and Adoption Vote (5:01 p.m.)
Thursday, Oct. 1 — Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget Implementation

The annual budget process establishes funding priorities for city operations, public safety, transportation, parks, infrastructure, capital improvements and other municipal services while determining the city’s property tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year.

Politics

State Rep. Angie Nixon Condemns Deadly ICE Shooting, Calls for Independent Investigation

Published

5 days ago

July 10, 2026

FNN NEWS

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Following the fatal shooting of 52-year-old father and construction worker Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Houston, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate and Florida State Representative Angie Nixon released the following statement:

Statement from Rep. Angie Nixon

“Lorenzo Salgado Araujo was a father who spent decades building homes and providing for his family. He was fatally shot in the street by an ICE agent operating from an unmarked vehicle. My heart breaks for his wife and three sons.

“Our nation faces a moral choice. We must stop investing billions of taxpayer dollars in an agency that, in my view, terrorizes communities, operates with too little accountability, and often conducts enforcement actions without body cameras or clear identification. Those resources should instead be invested in strengthening our communities and helping families meet their basic needs. I believe ICE should be abolished.

“I stand in full solidarity with Lorenzo’s family in calling for a fully independent and transparent investigation into his death. I also call for the immediate release of his brother and the other individuals who were detained during this incident if they are being held without legal justification.”

Key Points

Rep. Angie Nixon expressed condolences to the family of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo.
She called for a fully independent and transparent investigation into the fatal shooting.
Nixon criticized ICE’s enforcement practices and renewed her call to abolish the agency.
She urged the release of Lorenzo’s brother and others detained during the incident if their continued detention is not legally justified.