The Justice Department will make it easier for certain prisoners to get clemency petitions . A new rule that allows the federal government to grant pardons and commutations in cases where a prisoner has served at least two-thirds of his or her sentence is expected to be announced by Attorney General Jeff He anticipates a sharp increase in the number of inmates eligible to apply . The move aims to remedy disparity in sentences involving crack vs. powdered cocaine .
The Justice Department will make it easier for certain prisoners to get clemency petitions . Attorney General Eric Holder said new criteria would be put in place soon . He anticipates a sharp increase in the number of inmates eligible to apply . The move aims to remedy disparity in sentences involving crack vs. powdered cocaine .