More than 11,500 convictions for cannabis offenses are set to be expunged or reduced in Santa Clara County, California this week as part of a continuing effort to clear criminal records of actions that are no longer a violation of state law. The expungements are scheduled to be granted on Wednesday by Judge Eric S. Geffon, according to a release from the Santa Clara County Superior Court.
“The Santa Clara County Superior Court is pleased to be able to order the record clearance of thousands of people today,” Presiding Judge Deborah A. Ryan said in a statement that noted the collateral damage of marijuana convictions. “We hope this process will provide a sense of closure to those individuals. Having a clear record also will assist those seeking employment, an issue that is especially important as businesses begin the process of reopening.”