Gov. Murphy Cuts Camden Co. Woman's Prison Term For Murder

AUDUBON PARK, NJ — A former Camden County resident who was sentenced to 30 years in prison for murder will be released nearly two decades early.

Gov. Phil Murphy granted a commutation Tuesday in the prison sentence of Paige Pfefferle, who lived in Audubon Park. In 2013, Pfefferle was found guilty of murder in the fatal stabbing of her high school boyfriend three years prior. But advocates say she was defending herself against abuse as a teen.

Pfefferle, now 34, was sentenced to 30 years in prison without parole. Instead, she will be released after spending 12 years behind bars.

Murphy granted 87 pardons and six prison commutations on Tuesday. While a pardon eliminates a conviction and fully restores a person's rights, a commutation reduces a prison term while all convictions still stand.

Pfefferle must also undergo five years of parole supervision, which was part of her original sentencing.

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey has advocated for Pfefferle, calling her "a survivor who defended herself against her abuser when she was 19 years old."

"I'm grateful to be granted clemency so I can advocate for those who suffer from mental health issues and women and young girls who are survivors of domestic abuse," Pfefferle said in a statement through the ACLU-NJ.

Although the governor has sole authority over clemency actions in New Jersey, Murphy's actions on Tuesday stemmed from the state Clemency Advisory Board's recommendations. The board formed in June to review applications for pardons and commutations.

Many of the people considered for clemency were convicted of non-violent crimes. Victims of domestic or sexual violence who commit a crime against their perpetrator also receive consideration, according to the governor's office.

"With our Administration's groundbreaking clemency initiative, we are living up to New Jersey’s reputation as the ‘State for Second Chances,'" Murphy said in a statement. "The individuals to whom I have granted clemency today have earned their legal relief by dedicating themselves to becoming responsible, well-rounded citizens who are passionate about contributing to their communities and society as a whole."