Huckabee Commuted Suspect's Sentence

The man wanted for questioning in Sunday’s tragic killing of four police officers in Tacoma, Washington, would most likely be in jail right now if not for Mike Huckabee. Suspected shooter Maurice Clemmons was serving what was the equivalent of a life sentence in Arkansas until his sentence was commuted nine years ago by then-Governor Mike Huckabee, despite protests by prosecutors. Clemmons has a rap sheet beginning from age 17 that includes assault, burglary, theft, and rape. Huckabee commuted Clemmons' sentence, citing his young age at the time of his offenses. Clemmons served 11 years, though he landed back in prison for violating his parole. Those charges were dropped owing to an error in serving Clemmons his warrants. Clemmons was released from jail just six days ago, despite facing a fugitive warrant and eight felony charges. His record also indicates erratic behavior and mental instability, and prosecutors had requested a mental evaluation.