Governor Gavin Newsom Pardons Undocumented Immigrant Convicted of Attempted Murder, Department of Homeland Security Criticizes

Newsom Pardons Man Convicted of Attempted Murder

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a pardon for Somboon Phaymany — an undocumented immigrant previously convicted of attempted murder — potentially allowing his immigration case to be reopened and for him to remain in the U.S., according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Phaymany was convicted in 1997 of multiple charges: attempted murder, assault with a semi-automatic firearm, assault with a firearm, and conspiracy to commit assault with a firearm; he received a sentence of 14 years to life. At the time of conviction, he was 19 years old. In 2019, a judge issued a final order of deportation; Phaymany lost his green card and entered deportation proceedings.

Newsom: Phaymany Has Transformed His Life

In December 2025, Newsom granted the pardon, stating that Phaymany has transformed his life, providing "evidence of honest living and demonstrating eligibility for restoration of civil rights and responsibilities." DHS stated the pardon allows for "the reopening of immigration proceedings instead of deportation from the U.S., and he may remain in the California community."

DHS Criticizes: "Insane"

Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin criticized: "Pardoning an undocumented immigrant convicted of attempted murder to remain in the country is insane. These are the individuals that 'sanctuary' politicians protect." She stated that the pardon removed the qualifying prior convictions that made Phaymany deportable.

Phaymany applied for executive clemency early last year. In the announcement, Newsom wrote: "A pardon does not erase or forgive the conduct and consequences caused; it acknowledges the effort of self-reformation."

ICE Calls for End to Sanctuary Policies

Earlier this month, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) sent a letter to Newsom and the state's Attorney General, urging an end to "sanctuary" policies that allow undocumented immigrants with criminal records to leave jail and return to the community. The letter asked whether the state would comply with "detainer" requests — requests for local law enforcement to hold undocumented immigrants before their release after serving their sentences.

The federal government alleges that at least 4,500 undocumented immigrants with criminal records have been released in California. The Governor's office has not responded to requests for comment.