Pardoned for his "crime" 168 year later

DOVER, Del. (WPVI) -- Delaware Governor Jack Markell issued a pardon Monday for a conductor on the underground railroad, who was convicted of a crime exactly 168 years ago.

On November 2nd in 1847, Samuel Burris was sentenced to prison after he was found guilty of helping slaves escape from their owners.

But, his actions are no longer recorded as criminal, but rather as acts of freedom and bravery.

Some of Burris's descendants gathered to watch as Governor Jack Markell issued the pardon.

The ceremony took place at the old state house in Dover, the very location where Burris's trial was held.