THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON

August 3, 2016

Mr. Evans Ray

Gilmer CI

201 FCI Lane

Glenville, West Virginia 26351

Dear Evans,
I wanted to personally inform you that I am granting your application for commutation.

The power to grant pardons and clemency is one of the most profound authorities
granted to the President of the United States. It embodies the basic belief in our
democracy that people deserve a second chance after having made a mistake in their lives
that led to a conviction under our laws. Thousands of individuals have applied for
commutation, and only a fraction of these applications are approved.

I am granting your application because you have demonstrated the potential to
turn your life aroundmake the most of this opportunity. It will
not be easy, and you will confront many who doubt people with criminal records can
change. Perhaps even you are unsure of how you will adjust to your new circumstances.

But remember that you have the capacity to make good choices. By doing so, you
will affect not only your own life, but those close to you. You will also in?uence,
through your example, the possibility that others in your circumstances get their own
second chance in the future.

I believe in your ability to prove the doubters wrong, and change your life for the
better. So good luck, and Godspeed.

Sincerely,