Statement From Executive Director Christina Swarns on the Commutation of Death Sentences in California

In response to California Governor Gavin Newsom’s historic announcement today that the death sentences of all 548 people on California’s death row are commuted, Innocence Project Executive Director Christina Swarns issued the following statement:

“The death penalty carries a risk no system can remedy: executing an innocent person. Neither post-mortem evidence nor formal apology can repair such a catastrophic error. Today, Governor Gavin Newsom ensured that no one in California will be executed for a crime they didn’t commit. Since 1989, six people condemned to death in California have been exonerated. The governor’s courageous decision saved lives and brings us closer to a legal system that is fair, compassionate, and equitable for everyone.

The Innocence Project remains committed to ending the death penalty and to reforming any laws, policies, or practices that heighten the already unreasonable risks facing innocent people in the criminal legal system.”