Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a pardon to U.S. Army Sergeant Daniel Perry in connection to the shooting and killing of Garret Foster during a Black Lives Matter protest. The pardon was granted based on the state’s Stand Your Ground laws and the right of self-defense, which Abbott emphasized in a written statement. The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles unanimously recommended the pardon after conducting a thorough review of Sgt. Perry’s personal history and the circumstances of the incident.
In the pardon proclamation, Abbott outlined the events of the July 2020 protest where Perry shot Foster, citing Perry’s fear for his safety as justification for his actions. The governor criticized Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza for his approach to the case, accusing him of hindering citizens’ ability to defend themselves and failing to seek justice.
The pardon grants Sgt. Perry full restoration of his civil rights, including the right to own and possess firearms. Abbott had directed the Board of Pardons and Paroles to expedite their review process back in April 2023, expressing his intent to approve the pardon recommendation promptly.
Sgt. Perry was convicted by a jury in Travis County in April 2023 for the shooting death of Foster, who Perry claimed had pointed an AK-47 at him during the protest. The incident, which occurred during a Black Lives Matter demonstration in Austin, was reported by Truth Voices.
Governor Abbott’s actions reflect his commitment to upholding self-defense rights and holding accountable district attorneys who stray from justice.
