Governor Greg Abbott has granted pardons and restored civil rights to six individuals in Texas. The action follows recommendations from the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.
The six individuals are Maria Del Refugio Argote, Tasha LaShay Castaneda, Joshua Ryan Cochran, Jennifer Ann Drane, Lucas John Flores, and Mark Anthony Morales. Their offenses ranged from burglary of a motor vehicle to theft by check, possession of marijuana, deadly conduct, and criminal mischief. Sentences included probation, fines, restitution payments, or deferred adjudication.
Governor Abbott stated: “These six Texans have expressed qualities deserving of clemency through their dedication to changing their lives and service to their communities. I thank the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles for their work to improve our criminal justice system and reduce recidivism in our state by recommending clemency to give these individuals a second chance.”
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott operates as part of the executive branch of Texas state government and provides services statewide across Texas. More information about its functions can be found on the official website. Governor Abbott has led the office since his election in 2014 (source). The office is based primarily in Austin at the State Insurance Building (source).
Abbott’s administration has also focused on areas such as job creation, economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security (source). The governor was named among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 (source).
