President Biden's Controversial Pardons: Two Major Fraud Cases Revisited

President Joe Biden has sparked strong reactions by granting clemency to two high-profile criminals from Pennsylvania and Illinois. The cases involve a judge from Pennsylvania who was part of the infamous "kids-for-cash" scandal and a former Illinois comptroller convicted of a massive $54 million embezzlement. Both were serving house arrest due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Biden's decision now ends that early release. The "kids-for-cash" scandal involved a judge taking bribes to send juveniles to private detention centers, leading to the invalidation of thousands of juvenile convictions. Victims and their families are understandably upset. Sandy Fonzo, whose son died by suicide after being caught up in the scheme, expressed her shock and pain at Biden's decision. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also voiced his disapproval, stating that Biden "got it absolutely wrong. " In Illinois, Rita Crundwell's $54 million embezzlement from the city of Dixon was one of the largest municipal frauds in U. S. history. Her early release has raised similar concerns. Dixon's city manager Danny Langloss, who was the police chief when Crundwell's fraud was uncovered, felt justice wasn't served. He believes it's wrong that she gets to walk free before completing her sentence. The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in these early releases. Under the CARES Act, many inmates were moved to home confinement, including those convicted of nonviolent offenses. However, the decision to commute their sentences permanently has left many questioning the fairness and justice of the process.