A Pardon for Billy the Kid?

What's up with all the crazy pardons these days? Outgoing New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson said he would consider a pardon petition for Billy the Kid, the famed Wild West outlaw who killed 21 men and became an iconic figure of Western lore after he was shot point-blank by a sheriff in 1881. Descendants of Billy the Kid, whose real name was Henry McCarthy, have repeatedly requested pardons over the years, reminding officials that Billy was promised a pardon in exchange for testimony in a murder trial. "As someone who is fascinated with New Mexico's rich history, I've always been intrigued by the story of Billy the Kid and, in particular, the alleged promise of a pardon he was given," Richardson said in a statement. The governor has set up a website asking citizens and historians for input on the issue, and said he will decide on the pardon before the end of the year.