On September 13, 2024 the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons recommended commutation of Leon Garland’s sentence of Life Without the Possibility of Parole.
Upon Governor Shapiro’s approval, Leon, now age 69, will be reunited with his wife, who has stood by his side for over 50 years, as well as his daughter and grandchildren.
Leon was 18 years old in 1973, when his friend, Tryone Pearsall, shot and killed Leroy Skinner. Tyrone, the sole shooter, was permitted to plead guilty, and was released from prison after 9 years. Leon, however, was not permitted to take a plea. Though he never fired a shot, a jury sentenced him to die in prison.
Leon faced the Board with the never wavering support of his loving family, the Department of Corrections, where he has spent the past five decades of his life, and his team at Phillips Black. We are thrilled to welcome him home.