On January 29, 1917, the people of Hot Springs, Arkansas, were left stunned as Governor George W. Hays broke the mold of justice, issuing a record-breaking 889 pardons in just four short years. This unprecedented act of clemency surpassed all previous figures, cementing the Governor’s reputation as the most lenient executive in the state’s history.
Related Federal Cases
- Ex-Arkansas Lawmaker Sentenced in Bribery Scheme · Arkansas
- Arkansas Rep. Micah Neal Pleads Guilty to $600K Bribe Scheme · Arkansas
- Ex-Healthcare Exec Admits Bribing Arkansas Senator · Illinois
- Corruption Runs Deep in Arkansas Levee District · Arkansas
- Bonds of Betrayal: Arkansas Politicians Embroiled in Bizarre Cash Scheme · Illinois
Key Facts
- State: Arkansas
- Category: Public Corruption
- Era: Historical
- Source: Library of Congress — Chronicling America ↗
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