Gavin Newsom removes 548 killers from death row, taunting victims and their families

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Newsom changes California death sentences to life terms

California Gov. Gavin Newsom commuted the death sentences of 548 people to life without parole, the BBC reported on Nov. 5. Al Jazeera said Newsom pointed to state values and problems in the legal system; CBS News reported that the move does not end California’s death penalty or stop prosecutors from seeking it in future cases. Daily News said the decision drew both anger and praise. The reports do not describe any change to the sentences beyond commutation.