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President Obama Grants 79 More Commutations, Including Nine Florida Inmates

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10 years ago

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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.

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Florida

U.S. Embassy Reopens in Caracas, Offering New Opportunities for Venezuelans in Central Florida

Published

1 day ago

on

June 23, 2026

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WASHINGTON (FNN NEWS) — The United States has formally resumed operations at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela, marking the first permanent diplomatic presence in the country since 2019 and signaling a new phase in U.S.-Venezuela relations.

The reopening could have significant implications for Florida’s growing Venezuelan community, particularly in Central Florida, where thousands of Venezuelan families now call the Orlando region home.

The U.S. Department of State announced that diplomatic operations officially resumed March 30, following years in which U.S. engagement with Venezuela was conducted through the Venezuela Affairs Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, Colombia.

In January, Ambassador Laura F. Dogu arrived in Caracas as Chargé d’Affaires to lead U.S. government operations on the ground and oversee preparations for the eventual return of full embassy personnel and consular services.

Potential Impact on Venezuelan Families

For years, many Venezuelans seeking U.S. visa interviews or consular assistance were required to travel to Bogotá, often incurring significant travel expenses and logistical challenges.

While routine visa and passport services have not yet resumed in Caracas, U.S. officials said embassy personnel are working toward restoring full consular operations.

Once fully operational, the embassy could provide Venezuelan families with easier access to visa processing, family reunification services, emergency assistance and other consular support.

Economic and Business Opportunities

The reopening could also strengthen economic and commercial ties between Venezuela and Central Florida.

Florida has become a major destination for Venezuelan entrepreneurs, investors and professionals. Business leaders say a restored diplomatic presence may encourage additional trade, investment and business expansion opportunities between the two regions.

Industries including real estate, healthcare, construction, logistics and professional services could benefit from increased cross-border activity.

Strengthening Community Ties

Community leaders believe renewed diplomatic relations could further strengthen cultural, educational and civic connections between Venezuela and Central Florida.

Orlando-area organizations, universities and business groups may find new opportunities for collaboration, exchanges and partnerships as relations continue to normalize.

Florida State Representative Daisy Morales (left) House District in Orlando included 70 percent hispanic population. (2020-2022)

Former Florida Lawmaker Welcomes Diplomatic Reengagement

Former Florida State Representative Daisy Morales, who is also a candidate for Florida House District 43, applauded the reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas and highlighted its potential impact on Central Florida’s large Venezuelan and Hispanic communities.

Morales, a retired federal official who served with both the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of State, said the reopening represents an important first step toward strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the United States and Venezuela.

“I applaud the United States for taking this important first step in reopening the U.S. Embassy in Caracas and strengthening diplomatic relations with Venezuela,” Morales said. “This decision could have a positive impact on Central Florida, particularly for Venezuelan families, businesses and community organizations. As diplomatic relations continue to improve, it could also create opportunities to establish a Venezuelan consulate or honorary consulate in Orlando to better serve the growing Venezuelan population in our region.”

Morales noted that during her tenure in the Florida House, the district she represented was approximately 70 percent Hispanic, providing her with extensive experience working with diverse immigrant communities, foreign nationals and diplomatic representatives of Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Haiti, Grenada and France.

“Throughout my public service, I have worked closely with foreign nationals and diplomats on issues affecting our communities,” Morales said. “As conditions continue to improve and return to normalcy, I would not rule out visiting Venezuela in the future to strengthen relationships and explore opportunities that benefit both our communities and Central Florida.”

Morales also said that while renewed diplomatic engagement presents opportunities, policymakers should remain mindful of past experiences involving U.S. diplomatic relations with other nations.

“When President Barack Obama announced the reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba in 2015, many viewed it as the beginning of a new chapter in U.S.-Cuba relations,” Morales said. “However, diplomatic relationships can evolve over time and are often affected by changing political and security conditions. As the United States begins this new chapter with Venezuela, policymakers should proceed carefully and remain focused on protecting U.S. interests, promoting democratic values and ensuring the safety and well-being of Americans.”

Challenges Remain

Despite the reopening, challenges remain.

The U.S. Embassy in Caracas has not yet resumed routine consular services, and the State Department continues to maintain travel advisories for Venezuela because of ongoing security concerns.

In addition, immigration programs affecting Venezuelans residing in the United States, including asylum and Temporary Protected Status policies, remain separate from the embassy reopening and continue to be governed by federal immigration policy.

For many Venezuelans in Central Florida, however, the return of a U.S. diplomatic presence in Caracas represents an important milestone and a step toward reconnecting families, expanding economic opportunities and strengthening ties between both regions.

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Politics

FORMER PRESIDENTS, CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS GATHER FOR OPENING OF OBAMA PRESIDENTIAL CENTER

Published

6 days ago

on

June 18, 2026

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FORMER PRESIDENTS, CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS GATHER FOR OPENING OF OBAMA PRESIDENTIAL CENTER
Photo Credit: Angie McMonigal

CHICAGO (FNN NEWS) — The long-awaited Barack Obama Presidential Center officially opened Thursday with a star-studded dedication ceremony on Chicago’s South Side, drawing former presidents, national leaders, celebrities, and thousands of invited guests.

The ceremony began at 11 a.m. CDT with Chicago native and Grammy Award-winning singer Jennifer Hudson performing the national anthem.

Obama Center Opens

Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama delivered remarks celebrating the opening of the center, which is designed to serve as a cultural, educational, and civic engagement hub.

The opening marks the formal debut of one of the most anticipated presidential centers in modern history. The campus opens to the public on Juneteenth and is expected to attract visitors from across the United States and around the world.

Former Presidents in Attendance

Among the dignitaries attending the ceremony were:

  • Former President Joe Biden
  • Former President George W. Bush
  • Former President Bill Clinton
  • Former First Lady Jill Biden
  • Former First Lady Laura Bush
  • Former Secretary of State and former First Lady Hillary Clinton

National Leaders and Celebrities Attend

The event also attracted prominent political leaders, civil rights advocates, entertainers, and business leaders, including:

  • California Gov. Gavin Newsom
  • Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro
  • Civil rights leaders Andrew Young and Al Sharpton
  • Media icon Oprah Winfrey
  • Comedians David Letterman, Conan O’Brien, and Stephen Colbert
  • Actor Tom Hanks
  • Tennis legend Billie Jean King
  • Chicago Cubs Chairman Tom Ricketts

Several attendees, including Newsom and Shapiro, are widely viewed as potential contenders for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination.

A Landmark for Chicago’s South Side

The opening of the Obama Presidential Center represents a significant milestone for Chicago’s South Side, bringing national attention, tourism, and economic development opportunities to the community.

Thousands of invited guests attended the ceremony, while residents and supporters gathered at a free public watch party to celebrate the historic occasion.

The center is expected to serve as a lasting tribute to the legacy of the nation’s 44th president while inspiring future generations of leaders through civic engagement, education, and public service.

About the Obama Presidential Center

The Obama Presidential Center is a world-class campus dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. The center includes museum exhibits, public gathering spaces, educational programming, and community resources aimed at fostering leadership and civic participation.

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Politics

CARICOM Launches Online Platform for 51st Heads of Government Meeting Gros Islet, Saint Lucia conference set for July 5-8, 2026

Published

6 days ago

on

June 18, 2026

By

GEORGETOWN, Guyana (FNN NEWS) — The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat has launched a dedicated online platform for the upcoming 51st Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, scheduled to take place in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, from July 5-8, 2026.

Central Hub for Meeting Information

The online platform will serve as the primary source of information for media representatives, government officials, stakeholders, and the public leading up to and during the conference.

Available at CARICOM 51st Heads of Government Meeting Platform, the website features:

  • Information on the Opening Ceremony speakers
  • A detailed program of events
  • A profile of the incoming CARICOM Chair
  • Daily news updates
  • Photo and video galleries
  • Livestreams of the Opening Ceremony
  • Livestreams of the Closing Media Conference

The official Meeting Communiqué, summarizing decisions and outcomes from the conference, will also be published on the platform following the conclusion of the meeting.

Media Encouraged to Bookmark Platform

CARICOM officials are encouraging members of the media and other stakeholders to bookmark the website and visit regularly for updates throughout the conference.

The Secretariat also invited users to follow and engage with CARICOM’s social media channels using the hashtag #51HGC for real-time updates and coverage.

About CARICOM

Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was established on July 4, 1973, with the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas. The treaty was revised in 2001 to facilitate the creation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

CARICOM comprises 15 Member States and six Associate Members, representing approximately 16 million citizens across the Caribbean region. Nearly 60 percent of the Community’s population is under the age of 30.

The organization’s work is centered on four primary pillars:

  • Economic integration
  • Foreign policy coordination
  • Human and social development
  • Security cooperation

CARICOM’s vision is to build an integrated, inclusive, and resilient Caribbean Community driven by knowledge, innovation, excellence, and productivity while promoting human rights, social justice, and sustainable economic prosperity.

Headquartered in Georgetown

The principal administrative organ of the Community, the CARICOM Secretariat, is headquartered in Georgetown and coordinates the implementation of regional policies and initiatives among Member States.

CARICOM remains one of the most successful examples of regional integration in the developing world.

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