Governor Albert Bryan Jr. Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTIUM
Government House announced on Thursday that Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has exercised his constitutional authority to grant clemency to eight individuals, commuting the sentences of six and issuing two pardons in recognition of their rehabilitation, personal growth, and demonstrated commitment to positive reintegration into society.
Governor Bryan stressed that these clemency actions do not diminish the gravity of the crimes committed or the impact on victims and their families. Instead, they reflect a belief in redemption and the importance of fostering opportunities for meaningful contributions to society. Government House said each case was reviewed carefully, with consideration given to the individual's history, conduct during incarceration, and potential for successful reentry into the community.
The following individuals have had their sentences commuted to time served, effective immediately. Government House did not disclose the specific crimes committed by those granted commutations:
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Joseph A. Huggins, 80, incarcerated since 1988, has served 37 years with an exemplary record, acting as a mentor and role model to fellow inmates.
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Khalil N. Jafar (aka Samuel George), 66, sentenced in 1981 to life without parole, has maintained a clean record for 43 years, completing multiple educational and rehabilitative programs.
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Carl E. Simon, 64, sentenced to life without parole in 1995, has completed numerous certification programs and maintained a clean record throughout his 30-year incarceration.
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Kevin M. Callwood, 54, sentenced to life without parole in 1990, has served 34 years with an exemplary disciplinary record.
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Romal K. Colbourne, 51, sentenced to life without parole in 1994, has spent 30 years pursuing education and vocational training, earning his high school diploma and multiple technical certifications.
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Akeam Davis, 47, sentenced in 2015 to 15 years, has demonstrated strong rehabilitation and a commitment to personal betterment, earning praise for his motivation and dependability.
In addition to the commutations, Governor Bryan granted full pardons to two individuals who have served their sentences and shown a strong commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration:
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Bernalyn Tomeau, 52, convicted of embezzlement in 1996 and a subsequent offense in 2003, has since earned a degree and contributed significantly to the field of education.
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Delvin Delano Duggins, Sr., 58, sentenced in 2009 to one year of incarceration (with one month suspended), has demonstrated substantial rehabilitation and personal growth.
Governor Bryan acknowledged the gravity of granting clemency, stating that such decisions require careful deliberation.
“These decisions are not made lightly. I fully recognize the pain and lasting impact that these crimes have had on victims and their families. However, I also believe in the possibility of redemption and the importance of second chances. Many of these individuals have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to rehabilitation, and it is my hope that this clemency will empower them to become productive members of our community,” the governor stated.
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