Pardons rare for felons who haven't served time

The Constitution gives the president the “power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment.” The provision is generally understood to grant complete discretion where federal crimes are involved.

According to Justice Department standards, “requests for commutation generally are not accepted unless and until a person has begun serving that sentence,” and they are generally not granted to those appealing their convictions. Cooperation with prosecutors is usually considered a factor in granting such requests.

With just minor exceptions, Ms. Love said, “I can’t think of a recent commutation that was granted before at least some prison time was served.”