OHIO — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine celebrated a milestone this afternoon at Cleveland State University, announcing that 182 individuals have received pardons in the first five years of the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project.

Launched in December 2019, the program was designed to simplify and speed up the pardon process for rehabilitated citizens who have demonstrated they are law-abiding and contributing members of society.

Of the total pardons granted, 74 were issued in the past 12 months.

During the event, Governor DeWine signed pardons for two recipients who joined him on stage.

“Even for those who’ve learned from their mistakes and have gone on to live good lives, a criminal history shuts the door on certain career, education, and volunteer opportunities,” said Governor DeWine.

“Through the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project, we are helping to remove the obstacles for those who have become upstanding citizens.”

The program eliminates administrative barriers in the traditional pardon process and provides free, personalized support from Ohio law schools.

Applications submitted through the program are fast-tracked for review by the Ohio Parole Board and the governor.

The initiative is a collaboration between the Ohio Governor’s Office, the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, and several Ohio law schools, including Cleveland State University, The Ohio State University, the University of Akron, the University of Dayton, and the University of Cincinnati, along with the Ohio Justice & Policy Center.

Since the program’s launch, 543 applicants have met the criteria to participate, with over 275 currently navigating the expedited process.

For more information about the Ohio Governor’s Expedited Pardon Project, visit the program’s website.