Sessions Statement on Ramos and Compean Sentence Commutation

U.S. Congressman Pete Sessions today released the following statement regarding President Bush’s decision to commute the sentences of former Border Patrol agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean:

“For years, Americans have witnessed Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean’s tragic prosecution and imprisonment as our nation’s judicial system chose to embrace the fabricated story of an illegal drug smuggler over the lives and liberty of dedicated Border Patrol agents. Thousands of concerned citizens have rallied for their release, and I have joined Members of Congress in pleading for their pardon through numerous letters to the President and congressional resolutions.

“Today marks the end of an injustice. While I believe that Ramos and Compean deserve a full presidential pardon, I am relieved and grateful that President Bush’s decision to commute Ramos and Compean’s sentences will secure their freedom from prison.

“Ramos and Compean’s story highlights the urgent need for border security and the rule of law to remain among our nation’s top priorities. Especially as drug trafficking and violence continue to assault our border, our Border Patrol agents should know that their government will support and defend them as they risk their lives for the security of our nation.

“May Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean know the support of a grateful nation as they begin new chapters in their lives.”