Gov. Strickland pardons 2 women

Staff report

COLUMBUS

Outgoing Gov. Ted Strickland has pardoned two women convicted of crimes in Columbiana Municipal Court several years ago.

“After a careful and diligent examination of the totality of the materials available to me, I believe that Korinna Moore has demonstrated that she has been rehabilitated and has assumed the responsibilities of citizenship. A full and unconditional pardon is warranted,” the governor wrote in his pardon message.

Moore, 48, was convicted of endangering children in March 2005 and sentenced to a year’s probation and court costs.

The governor had the same pardon message for Terri Stallsmith, also 48.

Stallsmith was convicted of selling tobacco products to minors in January 2003, fined $50 and court costs and sentenced to a year’s probation; and then convicted of theft in September 2005 and ordered to make full restitution.

In the cases of Moore and Stallsmith, Strickland went against the recommendations of the Ohio Parole Board, which were unfavorable.

Of 377 clemency applications statewide, the governor denied 334 requests and granted clemency in 43 cases, including 37 pardons and six commutations.

The governor’s office said in a news release that he intends to announce more clemency decisions later this week.

“I take very seriously my authority over executive clemencies and the opportunity to give second chances to those who have earned them,” Gov. Strickland said.

“This critical process in our justice system offers mercy to individuals who have illustrated that they are ready to regain positions as productive and responsible citizens,” the governor added.