Biden Pardons Norwalk Resident Convicted of Nonviolent Drug Offense

By Hugh McQuaid

December 14 @ 5:00 am

A Norwalk resident was among 39 Americans to earn a pardon Thursday from President Joe Biden, who sought to provide clemency to people who had rehabilitated their lives following convictions for non-violent crimes including drug offenses.

Biden pardoned Sherranda Janell Harris, 43, of Norwalk as part of what the Associated Press described as the “largest single day-act of clemency in modern history.”

“America was built on the promise of possibility and second chances,” Biden said in a press release. “As President, I have the great privilege of extending mercy to people who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation, restoring opportunity for Americans to participate in daily life and contribute to their communities, and taking steps to remove sentencing disparities for non-violent offenders, especially those convicted of drug offenses.”

Harris was convicted of a non-violent drug offence when she was 24 years old, according to a statement from the White House. Since that conviction, she has maintained employment, has been an engaged parent, and has taken care of fellow church parishioners. The White House described Harris as “a role model for young women in her community.”

The president’s pardon of a Norwalk resident prompted a statement from Connecticut Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff, D-Norwalk. Duff said Biden’s actions reflected compassion and a commitment to justice.

“Too many Americans had their lives permanently disrupted by draconian drug policies in the 1990s and early 2000s,” Duff said. “These policies disproportionately affected communities of color, creating barriers to education, housing, and employment for generations. Although I do not personally know Ms. Harris, it’s heartening to see a fellow Norwalk resident receive an opportunity for a fresh start.”

In his statement, the president said that the 39 people he pardoned had shown commitment to making their communities stronger and safer. Meanwhile, Biden said he issued the 1,499 commutations to individuals who were serving long prison sentences, often for crimes that would receive more lenient punishments by today’s standards.

Biden said Americans could expect additional announcements before he left office early next month.

“I will take more steps in the weeks ahead,” the president said. “My Administration will continue reviewing clemency petitions to advance equal justice under the law, promote public safety, support rehabilitation and reentry, and provide meaningful second chances.”