Luzerne Times

Senator Lisa Baker has voiced her disapproval following President Biden's decision to commute the sentence of Michael Conahan. In a statement, Senator Baker expressed concern for the victims and families affected by the Kids for Cash Scandal, questioning the justification behind the commutation.

"For the many victims of the Kids for Cash Scandal, for their families, for those involved in bringing the perpetrators to account, for those of us who are still working on a second round of reforms for the juvenile justice system, a commutation of Michael Conahan’s sentence is incomprehensible and indefensible," she stated. "Where does ruining the lives of vulnerable kids in order to enrich oneself warrant a presidential commutation?"

Senator Baker further criticized President Biden's decision as undermining equal justice. "It is truly disheartening to see a national leader on criminal justice issues for decades so wantonly undermine the rule of equal justice in his waning days," she added.

The statement was issued amid ongoing efforts toward reforming juvenile justice systems.