What is an action of executive clemency which exonerates the prisoner of blame for the offense and relieves him or her of guilt? Not the same as 'not guilty' - just means prisoner doesn't have to complete sentence.

• A. Parole
• B. Pardon
• C. Reprieve
• D. Commutation

Answer: (B)

The action being tested is pardon. A pardon is an official act of mercy from the executive branch (such as a president or governor) that forgives the offense and relieves the person of guilt and punishment. It can end the sentence and may restore certain rights, even though it does not necessarily declare the person innocent in the eyes of the law. That reconciles the idea of exonerating the offender and releasing them from penalties, while not asserting a not-guilty verdict.

Parole is about release from prison before the full sentence is served under supervision, but guilt remains. A reprieve postpones punishment temporarily, without removing guilt. Commutation reduces the length or severity of a sentence but does not erase guilt either.