Texas Governor Greg Abbott has granted a full pardon to Daniel Perry, a former U.S. Army sergeant who was convicted of murder for the shooting death of Garrett Foster, an armed demonstrator, during the 2020 protests in Austin against police violence and racial injustice. Perry, who had served a 25-year prison sentence, was released after receiving a pardon.
Perry’s pardon, which also restored his firearm rights, was unanimously recommended by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. In his announcement, Governor Abbott, a Republican serving his third term, highlighted the robust “Stand Your Ground” laws in Texas.
Perry, a ride-share driver, came across a protest and shot Foster, an Air Force veteran. Foster was armed, but it is reported that he did not raise his weapon. The incident ignited intense discussions during the peak of the nationwide protests that ensued after George Floyd’s passing.
Perry was convicted of murder in 2023 by the jury, who were presented with evidence by prosecutors that included his social media posts depicting him as holding racist views. Abbott’s decision came after receiving feedback from influential conservatives, including former Fox News host Tucker Carlson.
Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza criticised the pardon, stating that it was driven by political motives and had a detrimental effect on the justice system. He expressed his disapproval of the governor and the board’s decision, suggesting that they placed political interests above the pursuit of justice.
Perry’s attorney, Clint Broden, argued that Perry was justified in his actions as he faced a hostile crowd and an individual who was armed. Perry’s family expressed their appreciation for the pardon and the self-defense laws in Texas.
Foster’s fiancée, Whitney Mitchell, and her mother, Patricia Kirven, criticised the pardon as an act of “lawlessness,” claiming that the governor prioritised political views over the principles of human life and justice. They highlighted the impact on their family’s emotions and advocated for a justice system that is independent from political interference.
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