Governor Pardons Boy Who Took Pen, Nut During Capitol Visit

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown “pardoned” a fourth grade boy after he wrote a letter of apology for taking a pen and a hazelnut from the Capitol during a class trip there in April.

Samuel Revenko wrote, “Dear Governor Brown, My class visited the capitol on April 19. While we were there I took a hazelnut and pen from the capitol building. These things were not mine and it was wrong for me to take them. I’m very sorry. I hope you and the people of Oregon can forgive me.” With the letter, Revenko sent the pen and a dollar to cover the cost of the hazelnut, UPI reported.

Brown wrote a note forgiving Revenko, then formally pardoned him in a Facebook post that displayed his letter with the pen and dollar.

“Samuel, in exchange for your apology, debt repayment, and return of the pen you lifted, I formally pardon you from any further penalty,” Brown posted. “I hope the pen coming your way will be an adequate memento of your visit at the Capitol. Come back soon!”

Commenters thanked Brown for her graciousness and also complimented Revenko’s parents for holding him accountable for his actions.

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