N.Y. Gov. Pataki Offers No Clemencies

ALBANY, N.Y. -- Gov. George Pataki, leaving office next month and eyeing a run for the 2008 Republican presidential nomination, won't be granting clemency to any prisoners this year.

It marks the third time in Pataki's 12-year tenure that he has issued no clemencies during the holiday season. None was granted in 1998 or 2004.

The decision Tuesday drew a rebuke from an advocate for inmates.

"He's going out as Ebenezer Scrooge before the ghost of Jacob Marley appeared rather than the Ebenezer Scrooge who has seen the light of what Christmas should be _ a joyful and merciful season," said Robert Gangi, executive director of the Correctional Association of New York.

Pataki, who did not seek a fourth term as governor, has issued 32 clemencies or pardons.

"This isn't the Clinton White House," said Pataki spokesman David Catalfamo, alluding to last-minute pardons issued by President Clinton as he left office in early 2001. "We aren't having a going-out-of-business sale on justice."

His Democratic predecessor, Mario Cuomo, granted clemency to 35 prisoners during 12 years in office. Democratic Gov. Hugh Carey granted relief to inmates 35 times during his last two years in office, 1981 and 1982.