Charles Colson's rights reinstated by Florida

Christian Century, Oct 25, 2000 by Rns

Watergate-figure-turned-evangelical-activist Charles Colson has been given his civil rights back 25 years after he was sent to jail for his role in the Watergate coverup.

Colson, 68, was the special counsel to former President Richard Nixon and spent seven months in federal prison for his role in the Watergate scandal. After his release in 1975, Colson founded Prison Fellowship, an evangelical prison ministry based in Virginia.

Florida Governor Jeb Bush restored Colson's civil rights--including the right to vote, practice law and serve on a jury--after his name and 21 others were sent to him by the state's Parole Commission. Colson has a home in Naples, Florida. "He certainly has served his time," Bush said, according to the Associated Press. "The crime that he committed was a serious one, but I think it's time to move on. I know him. He's a great guy, he's a great Floridian."

There was no hearing in the case; felons can apply to the parole board to have their rights reinstated, and if endorsed, their names are sent to the governor and cabinet for approval.