Jackson, MS?Attorney General Jim Hood?s request for an injunction concerning Governor Haley Barbour?s most recent pardons has been granted.

AG Hood filed his request with Hinds County Circuit Judge Tomie Green this afternoon.  The AG requested the injunction to stop the release of Governor Barbour?s pardoned criminals until it can be determined that they met the requirements of Section 124 of the Mississippi Constitution.  Section 124 states that no pardon shall be granted until the applicant has published for 30 days their request for pardon. 

In her ruling, Judge Green said she granted the request because ?there is a substantial likelihood of success on his claim that the subject pardons violated Section 124 of the Mississippi Constitution.  There is a sufficient threat of irreparable injury should the subject individuals be released based upon the purported gubernatorial pardons. ? 

?We are looking at each pardon, but have already found cases where this requirement was not met,? said Attorney General Hood.  ?For the safety of all our residents and for the sanctity of our Constitution, we had to request the injunction.  Each of these individuals will have a day in court to show that they have met the necessary requirements.  If they have not, then we will ask the court will void those pardons.?

The Attorney General?s Office will move expeditiously with its investigation into each pardon and will announce any findings with an announcement and/or further court action.

Said Attorney General Hood:  ?This is an absolute tragedy for the victims involved in each of these cases.  It is inconceivable to me that the Governor would take this action and would jeopardize the safety of the people he was sworn to protect.?

Emergency Complaint for TRO

Motion for TRO

Order Granting TRO