"Missouri Governor Sets Record-Breaking Pace for Pardons, Surpassing WWII Era"
Missouri Governor Mike Parson has granted over 600 pardons in the past three years, the highest number by any Missouri governor since the 1940s. Parson's pardoning pace aligns with a national movement to restore citizens' rights and reputations after serving criminal sentences. The movement reflects a shift away from tough-on-crime politics and a return to an era when pardons and commutations were more common. Parson's staff has been evaluating around 100 cases each month, considering factors such as work history, education, community involvement, and contrition for crimes. The pardons have helped individuals like Kenny Batson, a reformed man who went from a life of crime to becoming a Christian pastor.