In a powerful affirmation of Texan values, Governor Greg Abbott has granted a full pardon to U.S. Army Sergeant Daniel Perry, underscoring the critical importance of the state’s robust Stand Your Ground laws and the inherent right to self-defense. Sgt. Perry was previously convicted by a Travis County jury in April 2023 for the fatal shooting of Garret Foster during the turbulent Black Lives Matter protests in Austin.
Governor Abbott has been adamant that Texas’ self-defense statutes cannot be undermined by any jury or the machinations of a progressive District Attorney. In a forthright statement, he emphasized, “Texas has one of the strongest ‘Stand Your Ground’ laws of self-defense that cannot be nullified by a jury or a progressive District Attorney.”
The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, following an exhaustive review of Perry’s personal history and the specifics of the July 2020 incident, unanimously recommended the pardon. Their findings remarkably aligned with the governor’s steadfast belief in Perry’s right to defend himself against an imminent threat.
Governor Abbott detailed the harrowing events that led to the tragic shooting in his Pardon Proclamation. On the night of July 25, 2020, Sgt. Perry found himself besieged by aggressive protesters obstructing Congress Avenue. As Garrett Foster neared Perry’s vehicle brandishing an AK-47, Sgt. Perry acted swiftly, perceiving a direct threat to his life. His swift action, followed by an immediate call to law enforcement, underscored his claim of legitimate self-defense.
In his proclamation, Governor Abbott went on to critique Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza for his overtly political agenda aimed at diminishing lawful Texans’ access to firearms. The governor accused Garza of withholding crucial exculpatory evidence and failing to seek true justice in this case.
The full pardon restoration includes Sgt. Perry’s right to own and possess firearms, ensuring that his civil rights are wholly reinstated. This move came as no surprise to those closely monitoring the case, as Governor Abbott had directed the Board of Pardons and Paroles to expedite their review earlier in April 2023, affirming his intent to promptly approve their recommendation.
This pardon underscores the fundamental principle that Texans should never be penalized for defending their lives. The actions taken by Governor Abbott send a clear message that rogue District Attorneys who choose to prioritize progressive policies over justice will face staunch opposition.
In the wake of Sgt. Perry’s conviction, it is evident that Texas remains a beacon for conservative values, emphasizing the unalienable right to self-defense and standing firm against any encroachment upon individual liberties.