Judge Who Profited From Jailing Minors Receives Clemency From Biden
President Joe Biden’s decision to commute the sentence of Michael Conahan, a former Pennsylvania judge, has ignited fierce criticism from families affected by the “kids-for-cash” scandal. Conahan, who accepted bribes to send children to private detention centers, had been serving an 18-year sentence for racketeering.
The scheme involved shutting down a county-run juvenile facility in favor of privately owned centers. Prosecutors exposed how Conahan received millions in illegal payments while minors were incarcerated for petty infractions like truancy. Some victims were as young as eight years old, and many suffered severe emotional consequences.
“This pardon is a terrible blow,” said Sandy Fonzo, whose son took his own life after being placed in juvenile detention under Conahan’s rulings. “He destroyed lives and families. How can this be justified?”
Fonzo’s sentiment echoed throughout the region, where the scandal had left lasting scars. Thousands of juvenile convictions were overturned, and the community still grapples with the trauma caused by Conahan and his co-conspirators.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) denounced the clemency, calling it a “painful mistake” during a press conference. “This scandal was a betrayal of trust that tore families apart,” he said. “Some of these children never recovered. The damage was deep and irreversible.”
Critics also noted Biden’s clemency for Rita Crundwell, a former Illinois official convicted of embezzling over $53 million from her city. Many viewed these decisions as prioritizing leniency over justice for communities harmed by corruption and abuse of power.
Biden’s actions have reignited debate over clemency policies, with many arguing that such decisions should prioritize accountability for the victims rather than second chances for those who caused lasting harm.
