Man Pardoned, Criminal Record Cleared After Rebuilding Life

Shaul Kokuliev, 41, has received a presidential pardon and will have his criminal record expunged, marking a significant milestone in his decade-long journey of rehabilitation. Kokuliev's life was once consumed by addiction and crime, leading to multiple prison sentences. However, in 2017, after being arrested for drunk driving, he resolved to change his life.

He began attending recovery groups and sought help, a process he describes as ongoing. Inspired by his own recovery, Kokuliev pursued a career in social work, first completing a program to finish his high school education and then earning a bachelor's degree. Despite his achievements, his criminal record continued to be a barrier, preventing him from fully integrating into the social work field and even impacting his ability to register as a social worker.

The pardon, granted by the President's office, is seen by Kokuliev as the final validation of his transformation. He now openly shares his past with patients and inmates, emphasizing that change is possible and that one's past does not have to dictate their future. He stated, "Your past doesn't have to dictate your present. There are people who think change isn't possible - I think my case is a classic example that it is."

The article also provides context on the pardon process in Israel, noting that around 1,500 applications were pending. Approximately half of these requests are for expungement of criminal records, similar to Kokuliev's case, while only 15% seek sentence reductions. The process involves review by the Justice Ministry and the President's office, with consideration given to victim impact statements. Special pardon tracks have also been established for reservists who served significantly in the recent war.