New Mexico governor considering 'Billy the Kid' pardon petition

Billy the Kid, a 19th century American frontier outlaw whose exploits have been widely chronicled in US popular culture, is under consideration for a pardon by New Mexico governor Bill Richardson.

Richardson has said that he was reviewing a pardon petition based on former governor Lew Wallace's promise that the 19th century gunman would be pardoned in exchange for his testimony in 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," the Telegraph quoted Richardson, as saying in a statement.

"I will diligently review this new petition and all the facts available regarding an agreement between Billy the Kid and governor Wallace before rendering any decision," he added.