Governor Laura Kelly announced on Wednesday that she granted clemency to seven individuals, commuting the sentences of two incarcerated individuals and issuing pardons to five others, all of whom have shown significant signs of rehabilitation. This decision followed thorough reviews by the Prison Review Board, the Kansas Department of Administration, and the Governor’s legal team.

In making her decision, Governor Kelly considered various factors, including the nature of the offenses, the severity of the sentences, the impact on victims or survivors, evidence of rehabilitation, criminal history, lack of disciplinary issues in prison, and the personal growth and achievements of the individuals while incarcerated. In addition, she assessed their potential to positively contribute to society upon release. This is the first time Governor Kelly has granted clemency since 2021.

Individuals receiving commutations and pardons include:

Jose Arellano, pardon

Deshaun Durham, commutation

Stephen Gontz, pardon

Jeffrey Gronewaller, pardon

Lauren Holle, commutation  

James Valentine, pardon

Scottie Way, pardon

Additional information about the process can be found at the Board’s website.