Greg Abbott pardons Harris County man convicted of 1978 theft
HOUSTON - Governor Greg Abbott granted pardons to three Texans and restored their civil rights as the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles recommended on Thursday.
In a release, Abbott states the individuals demonstrated a commitment to reshape their lives and granted them pardons, so they may have a fresh start.
According to officials, the three individuals receiving pardons were:
- Jerry Lynn Smith, 64, from Harris County for theft in 1978 and was sentenced to pay a $500 fine.
- Robert Phillip Marsh, 51, from Midland County, was for theft in 1990 and was sentenced to two years of deferred adjudication probation.
- Heather Christine Sherman, 33, from Collin County for possession of marijuana in 2010 and was sentenced to three days of jail.
"Having served as a trial court judge, Texas Supreme Court Justice, and Attorney General, I have the utmost respect for our legal system and the unique gubernatorial power to grant clemency to Texans looking for a fresh start," said Governor Abbott. "These three Texans have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to reshape their lives and serve their communities. I thank the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles for their work to improve our criminal justice system and reduce recidivism in Texas."