Massachusetts Governor Delays Decision on Murder Commutation Recommendations

BOSTON, Massachusetts — Last summer, a state advisory board made a rare political recommendation for the commutation of sentences for two convicted murderers, Edward Fielding and Florentino, both serving life without parole. The board suggested that these men, convicted decades ago, should be released. However, nearly a year later, Governor Maura Healey has yet to decide on these cases.

The board recommended Fielding, 74, and Florentino, 66, for commutations in August and October 2022. Their cases, along with two others, were expected to be considered by Healey, but so far, there has been no response. Often, gubernatorial commutations are uncommon in Massachusetts. Healey’s five immediate predecessors granted only four during their tenures.

Some advocates and family members of the convicted are expressing concern over Healey’s delays. Attorney Patricia DeJuneas, representing Fielding and Florentino, noted the frustration shared by her clients due to the “radio silence.” She remarked, “To some extent, they’re losing hope,” highlighting the emotional toll the wait has taken.

Karissa Hand, a spokesperson for Healey, stated that the governor is still reviewing the recommendations sent by the Advisory Board of Pardons. Under state law, if the governor does not act within a year on a favorable recommendation, it is presumed she disagrees. Meanwhile, the board has also submitted unfavorable reports for three other individuals.

Fielding, a Vietnam War veteran, has been incarcerated for 42 years, while Florentino was involved in a robbery that led to a fatal shooting in 1977. Both have demonstrated significant rehabilitation during their time in prison. The board’s recommendations suggested reducing their sentences to improve their eligibility for parole.

For instance, Florentino has earned a reputation as a mentor among inmates, gaining the nicknames “the peacemaker” and “wise Will.” Meanwhile, Fielding’s report stated he had not faced any disciplinary issues in decades. The recommendations propose a reduction in their sentences, allowing them to seek parole or even immediate release.

The governor’s handling of clemency requests has drawn attention, as she previously approved nearly two dozen pardons since taking office, raising expectations for commutations as well. However, to date, no commutations have been granted.

Another petitioner, Randy Arias, who has served 16 years for second-degree murder, has also been included in discussions about potential commutations. Like Fielding and Florentino, he has pursued education while in prison, furthering his case for sentence reduction.

Scott Kirwan, who has been awaiting a commutation decision since October 2022, has been described as a model prisoner. His attorney, Robert Griffin, stated that the recommendation is in place but progress has stalled, stating, “I’m at a loss for what’s holding it up.”

The families of victims have often opposed these commutations, leading to a complex moral dilemma for the governor. Public testimonies reveal their pain, as Pamela Meagher, sister of a murder victim, spoke about the lasting impact on her children and her continued grief.

The long wait for a decision from Healey has left many confused. DeJuneas voiced her concerns over the impasse, questioning the rationale behind the administration’s lack of movement on these cases.

As the deadline approaches, it remains unclear whether Healey will move forward with the board’s recommendations. If she does, it could mark a historic shift in the state’s approach to clemency, potentially being the most commutations granted by a governor in close to three decades.