A New Hampshire auto shop owner facing deportation to Lebanon will get a chance to seek a pardon for crimes he committed as a teenager 14 years ago.
Thirty-four-year-old Alain Ata came to the U.S. at age 10. He spent several years in prison for burglary, conspiracy and receiving stolen property incidents when he was 18, and is seeking a pardon that will allow him to remain in the country.
In a letter to state officials, Ata says he made mistakes as a youth, but has worked hard and matured. He owns an auto repair shop in Manchester and says he doesn't want to be torn away from everything he loves.
The Executive Council on Wednesday voted 3-2 in favor of holding a pardon hearing. Prosecutors oppose his request.
