The Office of the Governor of the State of Virginia

01/18/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/18/2025 13:07

Governor Glenn Youngkin Decries President Biden’s Clemency for the Killers of a Virginia Police Officer

For Immediate Release:January 18, 2025
Contacts: Office of the Governor: Christian Martinez, [email protected]Office of the Governor: Christian Martinez, [email protected]

Governor Glenn Youngkin Decries President Biden's Clemency for the Killers of a Virginia Police Officer

RICHMOND, VA - Governor Glenn Youngkin today released the following statement after President Joe Biden announced the clemency of violent criminals Ferrone Claiborne and Terence Richardson, two men who admitted to being responsible for the brutal killing of Officer Allen Gibson, a Sussex County police officer.

"I am beyond outraged and in utter disbelief that President Biden would announce clemency for Ferrone Claiborne and Terence Richardson-two men who admitted for being responsible to brutally killing Officer Allen Gibson, a hero and dedicated servant to our community," said Governor Glenn Youngkin. "What makes this even more unconscionable is the Biden U.S Attorney advised the White House not to commute these sentences as they are violent offenders. The pain and sorrow this clemency causes the Gibson family is unimaginable. To know that the men who took Officer Gibson's life will walk free is not just a grave injustice-it is a heartbreaking blow to those who continue to mourn his sacrifice. This is despicable; a grim day for justice and for the families who trust that our system will hold the guilty accountable."

Both prisoners admitted to being responsible for the brutal killing of Officer Allen Gibson in Sussex County Circuit Court. The evidence presented and the details surrounding Officer Gibson's death are deeply disturbing and tragic.

President Obama declined to grant clemency to Ferrone Claiborne and Terence Richardson. In recent weeks, the Biden White House was advised by the Biden U.S. Attorney not to commute the sentences of certain prisoners, as they were violent offenders. Under the current terms, they are set to be released in July.

Officer Allen Gibson, grew up in Big Stone Gap, began his law enforcement career with the Waverly Police Department. Tragically, he lost his life in the line of duty while serving as a police officer. He left behind a wife and daughter.

# # #