Gov. Patrick comments on Wahlberg's pardon request

BOSTON (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Governor Patrick on Tuesday answered questions about actor Mark Wahlberg's request for a pardon.

Wahlberg is hoping to have convictions stemming from a 1988 arrest wiped off his record.
   
He was charged with criminal contempt, assault and battery, and possession of drugs just before his 17th birthday. Wahlberg was convicted as an adult, sentenced to two years in jail and served 45 days.

Gov. Patrick said it is too soon to say what decision will be made.

"The process is that he files a petition with a pardon review board; he has done that, I understand. They will hold hearings and make a recommendation to me," Patrick said. "I'll then consider that recommendation and if I make a decision to offer a pardon, it has to be confirmed by the Governor's Council. So I am not going to get ahead of the process."

In Wahlberg's application for the pardon, he said a clean slate could help him as he expands his restaurant business.

His family chain Wahlburgers recently announced plans to open 27 more locations across the nation. They would eventually like to see 300 Wahlburgers in the U.S.

Charlie Baker, who takes office as governor in January, also released a statement on Wahlberg's petition.

"Governor-elect baker feels Mr. Wahlberg should go through the same process as everyone else; submit his request to the proper authorities and let the process play out."

Cox Media Group