Trump pardons Alice Marie Johnson, whose cause was backed by Kim Kardashian

Alice Marie Johnson reacts as Trump pardons her at the White House. PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Alice Marie Johnson addresses the Republican National Convention in Washington, on Aug 27, 2020. PHOTO: NYTIMES

WASHINGTON (REUTERS) - President Donald Trump granted a full pardon on Friday (Aug 28) to Alice Marie Johnson, a Tennessee woman who received a life sentence for a first-time drug offence and whose cause was taken up by the celebrity Kim Kardashian West.

Trump, who commuted Johnson's sentence in 2018 after she had served more than 20 years in prison, signed the pardon during a meeting with Johnson in the Oval Office.

"We're taking Alice Johnson from a commutation to a full pardon," Trump said.

"Alice has done an incredible job since she's been out, recommending other people" who may deserve clemency or a pardon.

Johnson, who spoke at the Republican National Convention this week about her initial commutation, wiped away tears after Trump's announcement.

Kardashian West personally lobbied Trump about Johnson's case.

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