The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles is currently reviewing the high-profile murder case of Daniel Perry, the man convicted of fatally shooting Black Lives Matter protester Garrett Foster in July 2020. As reported by KXAN, Perry, who was found guilty of murder in April 2023 and sentenced to 25 years in prison, claimed self-defense in the incident that occurred while he was driving for Uber.
Gov. Greg Abbott has requested the board expedite Perry's pardon review, a move that the Travis County District Attorney's office has criticized as "political gamesmanship." According to a statement obtained by KXAN from the DA's office, there are concerns that the governor's interference could be dangerous to the community and the integrity of the justice system. Perry's attorneys declined to comment when approached Thursday. There's no exact timeline known for how long the review process will take, but it has been confirmed that this is the first instance of Abbott proactively recommending a pardon review.
Further complicating the case, KVUE has uncovered that Perry has previously expressed racist views. The controversy is heightened by political figures, including Tucker Carlson and Kyle Rittenhouse, calling for Perry's pardon. Additional pressure is mounted as Garrett Foster's fiancé, Whitney Mitchell, is seeking her opportunity to address the board about the night she was with Foster when he was shot.
In Texas, a full pardon can restore key civil rights such as the right to vote, hold public office, and serve as an executor of an estate. The pardon process is under stringent review, and the seven-member board, all appointed by Abbott, is tasked with making a recommendation before the governor can grant clemency. The Board of Pardons and Paroles, in a statement, said they're still investigating the case and that "Upon completion of the investigation and vote, the decision of the Board of Pardons and Paroles will be available." While a decision looms, the state and the nation watch as justice for a public demonstration's fallout hangs in balance.
