DENVER — On Friday Gov. John Hickenlooper granted pardons for 46 individuals who have served their sentences and are currently contributing members of their communities. He also commuted the sentences of six individuals who have sentences of life without parole. Five individuals will remain in prison, but were given parole eligibility dates ranging from four to ten years in the future. One individual will be released from prison in 2019.
One of the commutation recipients received a mandatory sentence as a juvenile of life without the possibility of parole. This type of sentence has since been declared unconstitutional by the United States Supreme Court. All six individuals were young at the time they committed their crimes and received sentences of life without parole. Granting a parole date will allow these individuals to have opportunities to participate in programs that will support their transition back into the community.
“These decisions are not made lightly,” said Governor John Hickenlooper. “Every individual granted clemency has shown to us that they are worthy of this consideration. Their crimes were severe. It’s our belief that young offenders who have grown into exemplary individuals, and who have clearly learned from their mistakes, should be considered for a second chance. It’s our sincere hope that each individual granted a commutation or pardon uses the opportunity to its fullest.”
The clemency process involves lengthy deliberation, extensive review of the materials provided, and careful consideration of input from victims, judges, prosecutors, and others. Public officials and community organizations have expressed support for many of those who have been granted commutations. To date, the governor has pardoned 135 individuals and granted six commutations. When making his decisions, the governor plays close attention to the nature of the offense, the way the case was handled (including how co-defendants, if any, were treated) and who these individuals are today.
Those receiving clemency were:
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Chad F. Armenta
In 2003, Chad F. Armenta pleaded guilty to Possession of a Schedule II Controlled
Substance (F-4) in Chaffee County, (2003CR17). In 2005, Chad F. Armenta also was found guilty of Manufacture of a Schedule II Controlled Substance (F-3) and Theft - Under $100 (M-3) in Chaffee County, (2003CR132). Chad F. Armenta completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Jordan M. Ashton
In 2003, Jordan M. Ashton pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Menacing (F-6) in
Arapahoe County, (03CR787). In 2004, Jordan M. Ashton pleaded guilty to Restraining Order Violation - Criminal (M-1) in Arapahoe County, (04M201385). Jordan M. Ashton completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Jordan E. Baucke
In 2005, Jordan E. Baucke pleaded guilty to Distribution of a Schedule III Controlled Substance (F-4) in Boulder County, (05CR756). Jordan E. Baucke completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Tammy S. Bellofatto-Bowman
In 2005, Tammy S. Bellofatto-Bowman pleaded guilty to Manufacturing a Schedule II Controlled Substance (F-3) in Jefferson County, (05CR130). In 2006, Tammy S.
Bellofatto-Bowman pleaded guilty to Theft (F-5) and Possession of a Forged Instrument (F-6) in Denver County, (06CR10030). Tammy S. Bellofatto-Bowman completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Jacob J. Bergener
In 2006, Jacob J. Bergener pleaded guilty to Third Degree Assault of an At-Risk Person (F-3) in the City and County of Denver, (2005CR4196). Jacob J. Bergener completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Brandon H. Bloodsaw
In 2004, Brandon H. Bloodsaw pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute
Marijuana (F-4) in Mesa County, (04CR815). Brandon H. Bloodsaw completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Adam J. Bode
In 1990, Adam J. Bode pleaded guilty to one count each of First Degree Criminal
Trespass (F-5), Theft (M-3), Theft (M-2), and Second Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft (M-2), and was found guilty of First Degree Criminal Trespass (F-5) in Larimer County, (90JV492). In 1992, Adam J. Bode was found guilty of Third Degree Assault (M-1) in Larimer County, (92M200492). Adam J. Bode completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Alisyn H. Bukowski
In 2006, Alisyn H. Bukowski pleaded guilty to Third Degree Assault (M-1) (05M7696) and Protection Order Violation - Criminal Attempt (M-2) (06M577) in Jefferson County. Alisyn H. Bukowski completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Jordan C. Burkholder
In 2000, Jordan C. Burkholder pleaded guilty to Theft (M-3) in Weld County,
(OOCR756). Jordan C. Burkholder completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Matthew D. Carroll
In 2003, Matthew D. Carroll pleaded guilty to Second Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft $500- $15,000 (F-6) and Eluding a Police Officer (MT0-2) in El Paso County, (03CR1726). Matthew D. Carroll completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Jacklin K. Churgin
In 1995, Jacklin K. Churgin pleaded guilty to Forgery of Money, Stamps, or Securities (F-5)
(1995CR90) and Theft of Less Than $100 (F-4) (1995CR315) in Garfield County. Jacklin K. Churgin completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Joshua C. Crabtree
In 1994, Joshua C. Crabtree pleaded guilty to Attempted Third Degree Assault (M-1) in Denver County (94C407763). Joshua C. Crabtree completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Jacqueline M. Doyle
In 1988, Jacqueline M. Doyle pleaded guilty to Theft of Rental Property (F-4) in Larimer County (1987CR944). In 1989, Jacqueline M. Doyle also pleaded guilty to Theft between $50 and $300 (M-2) in Boulder County (1989CR605). Jacqueline M. Doyle completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Elizabeth M. Guess
In 2002, Elizabeth M. Guess pleaded guilty to Marijuana- Distribution (F-4) in El Paso County (02CR1171). Elizabeth M. Guess completed the terms of her sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Jamie L. Hackney
In 2007, Jamie L. Hackney pleaded guilty to Possession of Less Than One Gram of a
Schedule II Controlled Substance (F-6) in El Paso County, Colorado (2007CR3645}. In 2009, Jamie L. Hackney pleaded guilty to Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (P0-2) in El Paso County, (2009M6377). Jamie L. Hackney completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Molly A. Hegge
In 2005, Molly A. Hegge pleaded guilty to Possession of a Schedule II Controlled
Substance Over One Gram (F-4) in Arapahoe County (2005CR2585). Molly A. Hegge completed the terms of her sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Ross A. Hennerman
In 1991, Ross A. Hennerman pleaded guilty to Theft (F-4) in Jackson County,
(91 CR6). Ross A. Hennerman completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
James E. Jennings
In 1994, James E. Jennings pleaded guilty to Theft (F-4) and Providing False Information to a Pawnbroker (F-5) in Jefferson County (1994CR868). James E. Jennings completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Taylor H. Karp
In 2009, Taylor H. Karp pleaded guilty to Possession of a Schedule IV Controlled
Substance Over One Gram (F-5) in Boulder County (2008CR1394). Taylor H. Karp completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
William R. Keelin
In 1974, William R. Keelin pleaded guilty to Theft in Routt County (Criminal Action No. 6955). William R. Keelin completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Trent J. Keller
In 2003, Trent J. Keller pleaded guilty to Third Degree Burglary (F-5) in Jefferson County (2003CR159). Trent J. Keller completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Troy N. Kirby
In 1990, Troy N. Kirby pleaded guilty to Attempted Theft (F-5) in El Paso County (1990CR268). Troy N. Kirby completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Alyssa J. Klugh
In 2004, Alyssa J. Klugh pleaded guilty to Harassment (M-3) in Chaffee County
(2004CR122). In 2005, Alyssa J. Klugh pleaded guilty to Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft (F-4) in Chaffee County {2005CR45). Alyssa J. Klugh completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Andrea J. Knoebel
In 1997, Andrea J. Knoebel pleaded guilty to Use of a Controlled Substance Schedule 1/II (F-5) and Child Abuse (M-2) in El Paso County (97CR891). Andrea J. Knoebel completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Paul J. Marcotte
In 1984, Paul J. Marcotte pleaded guilty to Possession of a Schedule II Controlled
Substance (F-3) in Boulder County (84CR747). Paul J. Marcotte completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Bobby J. Martinez
In 1999, Bobby J. Martinez pleaded guilty to Theft $500-$15,000 (F-4) (99CR306) and Theft Under $100 (M-3) (99CR437) in Mesa County. In 2000, Bobby J. Martinez pleaded guilty to Forgery- Commercial Checks (F-5) in Mesa County (OOCR731).
Bobby J. Martinez completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Shane C. McDermott
In 1987, Shane C. McDennott pleaded guilty to Aggravated Robbery (F-3) in Arapahoe County (1987CR1302). In 1990, Shane C. McDennott also pleaded guilty to First Degree Burglary in Chaffee County (1990CR1), which was later changed to Escape (F-3) per an agreement with the District Attorney. Shane C. McDennott completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Tonya N. Mooningbam
In 2003, Tonya N. Mooningham pleaded guilty to Possession of 1-8 Ounces of Marihuana (M-1) (2003CR329) and Distribution of25-450 Grams of a Schedule II Controlled Substance (F-3) (2003CR61) in El Paso County. In 2005, Tonya N. Mooningham pleaded guilty to Unlawful Use of a Schedule II Controlled Substance (F-6) in El Paso County (2004CR5549). Tonya N. Mooningham completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Huan L. Nguyen
In 1996, Huan L. Nguyen pleaded guilty to Forgery (F-5) and Multiple Thefts in 6
Months: $400+ Felony Theft Series (F-4) in Jefferson County (96CR697). Huan L.
Nguyen completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Loi T. Nguyen
In 1992, Loi T. Nguyen pleaded guilty to Aggravated Robbery {F-3) and Vehicular
Eluding (F-5) in Jefferson County (92CR1371). Loi T. Nguyen completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Francisco B. Piedra
In 2004, Francisco B. Piedra pleaded guilty to Possession of a Schedule V Controlled
Substance (M-1) in Adams County (2004CR1598). Francisco B. Piedra completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Damian J. Roque
In 1994, Damian J. Roque pleaded guilty to Forgery- Government Instruments of Value (F-5) in Pueblo County (94CR0578). Damian J. Roque completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Lindsay S. Ryan-Buck
In 2004, Lindsay S. Ryan-Buck pleaded guilty to Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance Over One Gram (F-4) in Jefferson County (2003CR3063). In 2005, Lindsay S. Ryan-Buck pleaded guilty to Possession of a Schedule N Controlled Substance Over One Gram (F-5) in Denver County (2005CR1381). Lindsay S. Ryan-Buck completed the terms of her sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Richard W. Schmidt, Jr.
In 1987, Richard W. Schmidt, Jr. pleaded guilty to Second Degree Burglary (F-4) and
Misdemeanor Theft (M-3) in Jefferson County (87CR44). Richard W. Schmidt, Jr. completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Harry J. Schneider Jr.
In 2001, Harry J. Schneider Jr. pleaded guilty to Second Degree Trespass of an Enclosed or Fenced Property (M-3) in Arapahoe County {2001CR2383). In 2002, Harry J. Schneider Jr. pleaded guilty to Reckless Driving (T-2) in Douglas County, (2002CR92). In 2003, Harry J. Schneider Jr. pleaded guilty to Theft/Receiving $500- $15,000 (F-4) in Lincoln County (2003CR4). Harry J. Schneider Jr. completed the terms of his sentences.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
William M. Smith
In 1984, William M. Smith pleaded guilty to Third Degree Assault (M-1) in El Paso
County (84Ml712). William M. Smith completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Frank E. Smith
In 1994, Frank E. Smith pleaded guilty to Third Degree Assault (M-1) in Moffat County (93F79). Frank E. Smith completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Joshua C. Smith
In 2001, Joshua C. Smith pleaded guilty to Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor (F-4) in Prowers County (2000CR136). Joshua C. Smith completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Wesley D. Spice
In 1979, Wesley D. Spice pleaded guilty to Second Degree Burglary (F-4) in Adams
County, Colorado (79CR401). Wesley D. Spice completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
David E. Stone
In 1989, David E. Stone pleaded nolo contendere to Possession of a Controlled Substance in Arapahoe County. David E. Stone completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Scott 0. Stone
In 1985, Scott 0. Stone pleaded guilty to Theft $200- $10,000 (F-4) in Denver County (85CR1007). Scott 0. Stone completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
James P. Sumers
In 1993, James P. Sumers pleaded guilty to Criminal Attempt-Theft of Rental Property (F-6) in Arapahoe County (93CR1819). James P. Sumers completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Richard L. Toth
In 1993, Richard L. Toth pleaded guilty to Harassment (M-3) in Adams County,
(1993M204). Richard L. Toth completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Michael S. Waneka
In 1992, MichaelS. Waneka pleaded guilty to Theft (F-4) in Weld County (1991 CR822). Michael S. Waneka completed the terms of his sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Sherry Wang
In 2010, Sherry Wang pleaded guilty to Theft- $500-$1,000 (M-1) in Larimer County (2010CR690). Sherry Wang completed the terms of her sentence.
Full and Unconditional Pardon
Robert C. Willis
In 1989, Robert C. Willis pleaded guilty to Theft (F-4) in La Plata County
(89CR44). In 1990, Robert C. Willis pleaded guilty to Criminal Attempt to Commit Second Degree Burglary (F-5) in Arapahoe County (90CR1014). Robert C. Willis completed the terms of his sentences.
Commutation of Sentence
Curtis A. Brooks
In 1997, Curtis A. Brooks, DOC Reg. No. 93003, was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole in the Department of Corrections for first degree murder (F-1 ). He was sentenced to additional time in the Department of Corrections for other crimes, to run concurrently with his life sentence. Mr. Brooks was a juvenile at the time of the offense (age 15). Mr. Brooks currently has no parole eligibility date. The statute under which Mr. Brooks was sentenced is unconstitutional pursuant to Miller v. Alabama, 567 U.S. 460 (2012). The constitutional and statutory conditions for granting this clemency petition have been satisfied, and granting this commutation is in the interest of justice.
Curtis A. Brooks be and hereby is granted a limited commutation such that he is granted parole effective July 1, 2019. Mr. Brooks shall remain on parole for five years.
Commutation of Sentence
Monir S. Wood
In 1999, Monir S. Wood, DOC Reg. No. 104767, was sentenced to the Department of
Corrections for life without the possibility of parole for first degree murder (F-1 ). Though he did not commit murder himself, he received a sentence for first degree murder the same as if he had been the killer. He was sentenced to additional time in the Department of Corrections for other crimes, to run concurrently with his life sentence. Mr. Wood currently has no parole eligibility date. The constitutional and statutory conditions for granting this clemency petition have been satisfied, and granting this commutation is in the interest of justice.
While incarcerated, Mr. Wood has obtained his Associate of Arts degree from Liberty University, a Diploma in Theology from Beacon University, and a paralegal certification from CSU Pueblo. He is currently enrolled in college courses, pursuing a Business Finance degree at Ashworth College.
Commutation of Sentence
Brian L. Lee
In 1993, Brian L. Lee, DOC Reg. No. 81024, was sentenced to the Department of
Corrections for life without the possibility of parole for first degree murder (F-1 ). He was sentenced to additional time in the Department of Corrections for other crimes, to run consecutively with his life sentence. Mr. Lee currently has no parole eligibility date. The constitutional and statutory conditions for granting this clemency petition have been satisfied, and granting this commutation is in the interest of justice.
I am also commuting the sentences of William Lee and Eric Lightner, who were involved in the crime with Mr. Lee and also received sentences of life without the possibility of parole.
Commutation of Sentence
William M. Lee
In 1993, William M. Lee, DOC Reg. No. 80995, was sentenced to the Department of
Corrections for life without the possibility of parole for first degree murder (F-1). He was sentenced to additional time in the Department of Corrections for other crimes, to run consecutively with his life sentence. Mr. Lee currently has no parole eligibility date. The constitutional and statutory conditions for granting this clemency petition have been satisfied, and granting this commutation is in the interest of justice.
Commutation of Sentence
Eric A. Lightner
In 1993, Eric A. Lightner, DOC Reg. No. 81023, was sentenced to the Department of
Corrections for life without the possibility of parole for first degree murder (F-1). He was sentenced to additional time in the Department of Corrections for other crimes, to run consecutively with his life sentence. Mr. Lightner currently has no parole eligibility date. The constitutional and statutory conditions for granting this clemency petition have been satisfied, and granting this commutation is in the interest of justice.
Commutation of Sentence
John E. Lopez
In 1998, John E. Lopez, DOC Reg. No. 83639, was sentenced to the Department of
Corrections for life without the possibility of parole for first degree murder (F-1). He was sentenced to additional time in the Department of Corrections for other crimes, to run concurrently with his life sentence. Mr. Lopez currently has no parole eligibility date. The constitutional and statutory conditions for granting this clemency petition have been satisfied, and granting this commutation is in the interest of justice.
At the time of his crime, Mr. Lopez had just turned 18 years old. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of his stepfather. Mr. Lopez and his family have described this situation as a “family tragedy.” Mr. Lopez’s mother, sister, and brother-in-law support his clemency application and have provided him with support since he entered DOC even in the face of their grief. They are committed to providing him with a home, and financial and emotional support upon his release.
While incarcerated, and even without the hope of a release date, Mr. Lopez has obtained several college degrees and is pursuing his PhD.
