US | Bill Richardson Billy the Kid May Finally Get His Pardon New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson will decide by year's end By Evann Gastaldo Posted Dec 20, 2010 8:09 AM CST Copied 1881: Wild West criminal Billy the Kid (1859 - 1881) meets his end at the hands of Sheriff Pat Garrett in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. (Getty Images) See 1 more photo 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. Read These Next Minneapolis shooter had a plan—and grievances. Jay Cutler can't avoid jail in DUI case. American Taylor Townsend gets an earful after her US Open win. Police chief releases details in Annunciation Church shooting. See 1 more photo Report an error