Official announcements from Congressional committees or major news outlets reporting the initiation

Biden Grants Clemency to 'Kids for Cash' Judge Michael Conahan, Who Accepted $2.1 Million, Amid Backlash from Victims

Dec 14, 2024, 11:39 AM

President Joe Biden has granted clemency to Judge Michael Conahan, who was implicated in the 'Kids for Cash' scandal, where he accepted $2.1 million in kickbacks from a private juvenile detention operator in exchange for sentencing minors to the facility on dubious charges. This decision has drawn significant backlash, particularly from victims and their families, with one mother expressing her shock and hurt over the pardon. Reports indicate that the White House did not take into account the specifics of Conahan's case when deciding on the clemency, which is part of a broader set of 1,500 pardons issued by Biden. The clemency has raised concerns about accountability in the judicial system, particularly regarding the treatment of vulnerable youth.