In February, Gov. Greg Abbott in partnership with the Board of Pardons and Paroles authorized a customized clemency application for survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence.
Reports reveal the application will include a specific section that will allow the applicant to share their statement to the BPP regarding their human trafficking experience or their domestic violence story. This is a big step in the fight against sex trafficking.
Human trafficking and domestic violence have been known to cause the victims to commit offenses that lead them to jail, and creates a vicious cycle of abuse and associated crime.
Abbott's announcement points to a new public awareness campaign to train survivors and let them know they can tell their story to the BPP to review. The BPP then reviews the case and, if it deems appropriate, sends the governor a recommendation for a pardon. However, this is only for crimes perpetrated while being under the influence of a trafficker or an abusive partner.
Abbott said Texas is committed to empowering the victims of trafficking and domestic violence.
"Texas is committed to empowering the survivors of domestic abuse and human trafficking, and one of the surest signals of that goal is laying out a true path to redemption and restoration," Abbott said. "The gubernatorial pardon plays an important role in this redemption process because it offers a second chance to survivors with criminal convictions resulting from their abuse or exploitation. I am grateful for our ongoing partnership with the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles as we work together to develop a stronger justice system that promotes redemption, restoration, and transformation."
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