Former Cleveland Area Boxer 1 of 75 To Get Sentence Commuted By Biden

WASHINGTON D.C. —Julian Burford, a former professional boxer from Bedford, was one of 75 people who had their prison sentences commuted by President Joe Biden on Tuesday, the White House announced.

Biden, who also pardoned three people, said the decision was made as part of Second Chance Month, and that he was commuting long sentences for non-violent drug offenses.

Many of those people who had their sentences commuted "would have received a lower sentence if they were charged with the same offense today, thanks to the bipartisan First Step Act," the president noted.

According to the White House, the 53-year-old Burford is serving 240 months (20 years), with a 10-year term of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine. The sentence began on Sept. 17, 2009.

Thanks to Biden's decision, the sentence will now expire on August 24, 2022, though the 10-year term of supervised release will remain in effect.

"America is a nation of laws and second chances, redemption, and rehabilitation," Biden said in a statement. "Elected officials on both sides of the aisle, faith leaders, civil rights advocates and law enforcement leaders agree that our criminal justice system can and should reflect these core values that enable safer and stronger communities.

"During Second Chance Month, I am using my authority under the Constitution to uphold those values by pardoning and commuting the sentences of fellow Americans."

In addition, Biden announced new steps to support those re-entering society after incarceration. Actions that include:

• A new collaboration between the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Labor to provide job training
• New grants for workforce development programs
• Greater opportunities to serve in the federal government
• Expanded access to capital for people with convictions trying to start a small business
• Improved reentry services for veterans
• More support for healthcare, housing and educational opportunities

"As I laid out in my comprehensive strategy to reduce gun crime, helping those who served their time return to their families and become contributing members of their communities is one of the most effective ways to reduce recidivism and decrease crime," Biden said.

The president added: "While today's announcement marks important progress, my administration will continue to review clemency petitions and deliver reforms that advance equity and justice, provide second chances and enhance the wellbeing and safety of all Americans."

According to Cleveland.com, Burford currently is serving his sentence at a minimum-security prison in West Virginia.

Years ago, Burford won a local Golden Gloves boxing championship and he twice advanced to the semifinals of the national tournament. As a professional fighter, Burford went 12-2 with 10 knockouts. His last pro bout was in 2005.

Burford also faced federal drug charges in 2001 when authorities accused him of operating a cocaine pipeline between Cleveland and Detroit. He also spent two years in prison after being convicted of drug trafficking in Cuyahoga County in 1992.