President Issues Pardons for Emissions and Fraud Convictions

The president signed pardons for six individuals convicted of Clean Air Act violations involving vehicle emissions-control modifications. The White House stated the recipients included business owners and truck mechanics prosecuted for bypassing required systems.

The pardons also covered a former business partner convicted in 2005 of fraud and conspiracy and a ranch owner previously convicted of an unspecified offense. Officials cited the ranch owner's post-conviction record and permission for military training use of the property.

The six recipients had been convicted for selling or installing equipment that disabled vehicle emissions systems. Federal prosecutors had argued the modifications increased pollutant releases. The White House said the enforcement actions were excessive and harmful to small businesses.

Officials linked the pardons to a memo directing the Environmental Protection Agency to allow vehicle owners to modify vehicles as they choose.

The former business partner had served nearly six years after pleading guilty to charges tied to a fleet of gambling boats. The White House noted the individual's subsequent operation of a staffing business. The ranch owner's conviction details were not released.

Officials said the property had hosted U.S. military and NATO training at no cost. The Clean Air Act, enacted in 1970, requires emissions-control equipment on vehicles and prohibits removal or bypass of those systems. The pardons are part of a series of clemency grants during the current term.