Clemency board votes 4–1 to recommend pardon for Dominic LaPreme
March 12, 2026 | Board Council Commission Agencies , Executive, Washington
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The Washington State Clemency and Pardons Board voted 4–1 on March 12 to recommend a pardon for Dominic LaPreme, a petitioner who told the board that long‑standing convictions have prevented him from working on certain government and military contracts, curtailed travel to Canada for family events, and limited his ability to coach and mentor youth.
Kurt Bennett, LaPreme’s attorney, told the board that LaPreme had been convicted more than 25 years ago of burglary 1 and kidnapping 2 and was 18 at the time of the offenses. Bennett described LaPreme’s post‑incarceration rehabilitation, vocational training, and business ownership, and argued that the continuing collateral consequences — including inability to bid on larger government or base contracts and restrictions on travel — amount to “extraordinary circumstances” that justify a pardon recommendation.
Dominic LaPreme addressed the board directly and apologized to victims, describing steps he has taken to rebuild his life: “I wanna take this public opportunity first to apologize. First and foremost to the victims of my crimes … I’m sorry for that hurt I caused you,” he said.
Prosecuting attorney Joseph Jackson said the office would not take a position on whether the board should grant relief, noting that some offenses are not vacatable under Washington law (citing RCW 9.94A.640) and that LaPreme’s case raises statutory questions. Jackson nonetheless acknowledged LaPreme’s rehabilitation had been significant.
After board members questioned counsel and the petitioner about the nature of the convictions, LaPreme’s age at the time of offense, and the practical limits he faces because of his record, Board Member Rhonda Salveson moved to recommend a pardon. Vice Chair Doug Baldwin Jr. seconded; the motion carried 4–1. Chair Raymond Delas Reyes reminded the petitioner that the board’s action is a recommendation to the governor, who has the final decision.
The board asked staff to forward its recommendation to the governor’s office for review.
Kurt Bennett, LaPreme’s attorney, told the board that LaPreme had been convicted more than 25 years ago of burglary 1 and kidnapping 2 and was 18 at the time of the offenses. Bennett described LaPreme’s post‑incarceration rehabilitation, vocational training, and business ownership, and argued that the continuing collateral consequences — including inability to bid on larger government or base contracts and restrictions on travel — amount to “extraordinary circumstances” that justify a pardon recommendation.
Dominic LaPreme addressed the board directly and apologized to victims, describing steps he has taken to rebuild his life: “I wanna take this public opportunity first to apologize. First and foremost to the victims of my crimes … I’m sorry for that hurt I caused you,” he said.
Prosecuting attorney Joseph Jackson said the office would not take a position on whether the board should grant relief, noting that some offenses are not vacatable under Washington law (citing RCW 9.94A.640) and that LaPreme’s case raises statutory questions. Jackson nonetheless acknowledged LaPreme’s rehabilitation had been significant.
After board members questioned counsel and the petitioner about the nature of the convictions, LaPreme’s age at the time of offense, and the practical limits he faces because of his record, Board Member Rhonda Salveson moved to recommend a pardon. Vice Chair Doug Baldwin Jr. seconded; the motion carried 4–1. Chair Raymond Delas Reyes reminded the petitioner that the board’s action is a recommendation to the governor, who has the final decision.
The board asked staff to forward its recommendation to the governor’s office for review.
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