Nevada’s Attorney General, Aaron Ford, faces scrutiny for sponsoring a clemency bid for a convicted killer. The convicted killer, Norman Smith, took the life of a pregnant woman while on bail for a series of armed robbery attacks on tourists. Ford has not provided an explanation for his support.

Ford’s Role in the Clemency Bid

Ford was the sole sponsor of Smith’s commutation application during a Nevada Board of Pardons Commissioners meeting on September 16. Smith committed murder in a convenience store parking lot. This crime occurred while Smith was on bail for robbery attempts against Las Vegas Strip tourists, based on court documents.

Despite Ford’s backing, the board rejected the clemency bid. Ford missed the commutation hearing and avoided questions about his decision when approached at a Las Vegas airport.

Political Implications

Ford’s support for Smith’s release occurred during his campaign for the gubernatorial race against Republican Governor Joe Lombardo. Governor Lombardo criticized Ford’s record on public safety and criminal justice reform.

“Aaron Ford was moving faster through that airport than the violent criminals he’s trying to put back on the street,” said Republican strategist Matt Gorman.

Ford’s Explanation

Ford’s campaign stated he missed the hearing due to a family medical emergency out of state. They described sponsoring applications as routine procedural steps for the Board of Pardons.

However, Ford did not explain why he supported Smith’s particular case. At the airport, a conservative tracker questioned Ford about his sponsorship. Ford avoided giving a clear response, saying only, “Good to see you,” and walking away.

The Case of Norman Smith

Smith was free on bail in 2015, facing 14 charges related to armed robberies on Vegas Strip tourists. He killed Tineshea Adams, a pregnant woman. Court documents indicate Smith claimed self-defense. He was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and armed robbery, receiving a 10-to-39-year sentence.

Smith’s case was the only commutation application Ford sponsored in 2026. By sponsoring the application, Ford elevated it from a queue to the state agenda for a full hearing and vote, per Board of Pardons rules.