Who has the power of executive clemency in Georgia?

In Georgia, the power of executive clemency primarily rests with the State Board of Pardons and Paroles. This board is responsible for granting pardons, paroles, and commutations, which are forms of clemency that can alter the punishment of individuals convicted of crimes. The authority to grant clemency is separate from the executive powers held by the Governor or any other state official, as the board operates as an independent agency.

While the Governor does have some influence over matters of clemency, particularly in the form of being able to grant a reprieve or temporarily halt a death sentence, the more significant and broader powers concerning pardons and parole are specifically assigned to the State Board of Pardons and Paroles. This distinct allocation ensures a level of checks and balances within the state’s justice system, allowing for considerations of individual cases without direct political influence from the Governor's office.