[jjotto]

The accused prefers to clear his name via trial. It’s a gamble.

Unless a pardon specifies that the accused was innocent, a pardon is an admission of guilt, if accepted.

[DiogenesLamp]

He still can’t make the authorities punish him if he is given a pardon. They will simply make him go away and stop bothering them.

[itsahoot]

a pardon is an admission of guilt, if accepted.

Lets see;
Go to jail
Don't go to jail.
Yep tough decision.