Virginia Governor Grants Clemency to Fired Police Sergeant
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin granted clemency to a fired police sergeant convicted of shooting and killing an unarmed man accused of stealing sunglasses. The officer was sentenced to three years in prison but will now be freed, although his felony conviction remains.
Key Points
- Youngkin's clemency allows the officer to be freed from prison
- Shifflett's conviction for reckless discharge of a firearm can still be appealed
- Controversy arises over the racial implications of the case
Pros
- Governor Youngkin believes the court's sentence was unjust and disproportionate
- Sgt. Shifflett acquitted of the more serious charge of involuntary manslaughter
- Shifflett has no prior criminal record and was considered an exemplary police officer
Cons
- Family of the victim feels that the decision validates the killing
- Democratic officials criticize the governor's interference in the justice system