Trump pardons former Puerto Rico governor Vazquez in corruption case
WASHINGTON, Jan 16 — U.S. President Donald Trump has pardoned former Puerto Rico Governor Wanda Vazquez Garced, who was indicted in a federal corruption case, the Justice Department announced.
The pardon was issued on Tuesday, according to official sources.
Vazquez Garced served as governor from 2019 to 2021 and faced charges related to bribery and fraud.
"The pardon reflects the president's discretion under constitutional powers," a Justice Department spokesperson said.
No further details on the specific reasons for the pardon were immediately provided.
The case involved allegations of misuse of public funds during her tenure.
Vazquez Garced had pleaded not guilty to the charges before the pardon.
This action follows Trump's history of issuing controversial pardons during his presidency.
Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, has faced political and economic challenges in recent years.
Legal experts note that pardons typically remove penalties but do not erase convictions.
For more information, visit the Justice Department's official website.