Native American Activist Leonard Peltier Released from Prison Following Commutation of Life Sentence by President Biden

Leonard Peltier, the Native American activist, was released from prison in Florida after Joe Biden commuted his two life sentences. At age 80 and in poor health, Peltier will serve his remaining time on home confinement in North Dakota. The NDN Collective, an Indigenous advocacy group, announced celebrations to welcome him back to his community. Following decades of support from human rights groups and civil rights icons, Biden’s decision was met with criticism from law enforcement groups. Peltier was convicted of killing two FBI agents in 1975 while a member of the American Indian Movement. Despite controversial evidence and withheld information during his trial, Peltier has maintained his innocence. His son, Chauncey, expressed gratitude for his father’s release and the efforts made to correct the injustice. Peltier hopes to clear his name in a new trial, with his lawyer planning to pursue appeals in his case. Former U.S. attorney James Reynolds, who had originally handled Peltier’s case, advocated for his release and acknowledged the miscarriage of justice. Peltier’s release comes after years of support and legal battles, providing him with a chance for a humane existence and reconnection with his culture.

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