Ritter Pardons 20, Including Anti-Gang Activist

DENVER (AP) -- Denver anti-gang activist Leon Kelly is among 20 people receiving pardons from Gov. Bill Ritter, who leaves office Jan. 11.

Ritter, a former Denver District Attorney, announced the pardons Wednesday. Until now, Ritter had only pardoned three people during his four years in office.

Ritter said the latest people to receive pardons have demonstrated great remorse, have made an effort at redeeming themselves and in some cases, are significantly involved in their community.

He pardoned five women and 15 men for felony and misdemeanor offenses dating from 1971 to 1999. The offenses range from marijuana possession to robbery.

Kelly, executive director of Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives, was pardoned for a 1979 conviction for aggravated robbery.

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