Regulation
Colorado Governor Pardons 29 More People for Marijuana Convictions
Gov. Jared Polis grants clemency to individuals with past cannabis offenses, continuing his efforts to provide second chances.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) pardoned 29 people on Wednesday, several of whom had prior marijuana convictions. The pardons are part of his ongoing clemency efforts for cannabis-related offenses, following mass pardons in 2020 and 2021.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) issued pardons to 29 individuals on Wednesday, adding to the thousands of cannabis clemency acts he has granted during his tenure. Several of those pardoned had been convicted of marijuana-related crimes, including possession of more than 8 ounces.
Among the recipients is Jonathan Carey, who was convicted in 2005 of possessing more than 8 ounces of marijuana. In a letter to Carey, Polis wrote, "Many people with criminal histories desire a second chance, and you have earned one." The governor noted Carey's post-conviction achievements, including graduating cum laude from law school and founding a legal clinic to provide low-cost services.
Scott Dillon, who pleaded guilty in 1999 to attempted possession of 8 ounces or more of cannabis, also received a pardon. Polis highlighted Dillon's educational accomplishments, including a doctoral degree in chiropractic medicine, and his work serving professional athletes and patients with special needs.
Sabrina Flanagan, convicted in 2006 for possession of between 1 and 8 ounces of marijuana and a small amount of a controlled substance, was pardoned as well. Polis praised her work as a peer support specialist and her founding of The Mersaides Project, which helps individuals seal their criminal records.
Other pardon recipients include Ernest Flowers Jr., who pleaded guilty in 1997 to possession of more than 8 ounces of marijuana or concentrate, and Derek Bilbrey, who pleaded guilty to possession of 1-8 ounces of marijuana in 2000. Polis cited their rehabilitation, military service, and community contributions.
Polis's office stated that he "continues to review all applications received before the April 3, 2026 deadline for clemency applications during his term." Previously, in 2020 and 2021, Polis issued mass pardons for thousands of people with prior marijuana convictions. Last year, he announced mass pardons for psilocybin-related convictions after signing legislation empowering him to grant clemency for psychedelics offenses.