In a highly controversial move, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has granted a full pardon and restored gun rights to Daniel Perry, a former Army sergeant who was found guilty of the murder of a Black Lives Matter protester. The decision came after a unanimous recommendation from the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, which conducted a thorough review of Perry's personal history and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Daniel Perry had admitted to shooting and killing Garrett Foster in July 2020 while driving as an Uber driver during a demonstration in downtown Austin. Perry's attorneys argued that the shooting was an act of self-defense, highlighting that Foster was armed at the time.

Governor Abbott expressed his support for the board's decision, emphasizing that Texas has strong "Stand Your Ground" laws that cannot be overridden by a jury or a progressive District Attorney. He thanked the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles for their exhaustive investigation and approved their pardon recommendation.

The board launched a detailed examination of the case at the request of Governor Abbott back in April 2023. Their efforts involved reviewing extensive evidence, including police reports, court records, witness statements, and interviews with individuals linked to the case. After careful analysis of the collected information, they reached a unanimous decision on May 16, 2024, recommending a full pardon and restoration of firearm rights for Daniel Perry.

The Travis County District Attorney's Office, which prosecuted the case against Perry, has yet to comment on Governor Abbott's decision. Any response from their side will be updated accordingly.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton took to social media, specifically X, to share his reaction to the news. He expressed relief that justice had prevailed in this case and defended the right to self-defense, which he believes is enshrined in the Constitution. Paxton also criticized "Soros-backed prosecutors" like Jose Garza, implying that they should not have the power to determine the rights Americans possess.

The decision by Governor Abbott to grant a full pardon and restore gun rights to Daniel Perry has sparked intense debates and divided opinions across the nation. As the story continues to develop, its impact on future protests and the broader Black Lives Matter movement remains uncertain.