Billy the Kid May Finally Get His Pardon

One of Bill Richardson’s last acts as New Mexico governor could be pardoning Billy the Kid. He’s reviewing a petition to pardon the famed outlaw—killed in 1881 after reportedly killing 21 men—which is based on the claim that Governor Lew Walllace promised the Wild West folk hero a pardon in exchange for testifying at 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. He will make a decision by the end of the year, Reuters reports. Click for more on Billy the Kid’s looming pardon—and why some aren’t happy about it.