Bush didn't pardon the men for their crimes, but decided instead to commute their prison sentences because he believed they were excessive and that they had already suffered the loss of their jobs, freedom and reputations, a senior administration official said.The action by the president, who believes the border agents received fair trials and that the verdicts were just, does not diminish the seriousness of their crimes, the official said.
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D95QC3480&show_article=1
And the men will now appeal their convictions and hope to be exonerated. A pardon would not accomplish that.
Well W. at least you did the minimum (as seems to be all you are able) and got them out of prison. Should have been a full pardon, but I’m glad they are finally free.