Click
here for printer-friendly version
Applicable form of Executive Clemency: Commutation
of Sentence
Eligibility: All inmates are eligible to apply.
Application Process: Application materials
are obtained by contacting:
South Dakota Board of Pardons and Paroles
1600 North Drive
Box 5911
Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5911
Tel: (605) 367-5040
Fax: (605) 367-5025
Application materials must be requested from the above
address. Failure to request forms from the above address
may lead to rejection of the application.
Click
here to see answers to frequently asked questions
(FAQs) compiled by the South Dakota Department of Corrections.
There are seven steps to complete in the application
process in order to be granted a hearing:
1) Complete form PA-1. This form authorizes the Board
to obtain a current FBI criminal history report. The
completed form must be returned to the Board at least
45 days before the hearing date.
2) Complete form PA-2. This is a basic application
for commutation of sentence.
3) Write a personal letter to the Board explaining
why you want, and should be granted, a commutation of
sentence. The Board must receive the letter 45 days
before the hearing date.
4) Publish a Notice of Application to inform
the public about your request for a commutation of sentence.
Complete form PA-3 and send it to a newspaper in the
county of your conviction at least 30 days before the
hearing. The notice must appear in the paper between
1 and 2 weeks prior to the hearing date. This cost will
be at the applicant's expense.
5) Complete form PA-4 and send it to the State's Attorney
in the county of conviction at least 30 days before
your hearing date.
6) Obtain a certified copy of your Judgment of
Sentence and send it with your application. This
can be obtained from the Clerk of Courts from the county
in which you were sentenced.
7) Submit letters of support from employers, church
or other community leaders, friends, family, etc. The
letters should be sent to the Board of Pardons and Paroles.
They can be sent with the application or separately.
Print clearly or type information on all forms.
The applicant may be asked by the Board to appear
at the hearing. The applicant may only appear at the
request of the Board.
Every effort has been made to make this information
accurate and up-to-date. Errors are inevitable and changes
occur frequently. We would appreciate learning of any
errors or inaccuracies regarding any information on
this Webpage as soon as possible. Please write to info@cjpf.org
