BIG NEWS! LPP constituent Jose Jimenez has been released after more than two decades in prison!

Jose was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cannabis as well as a firearms charge. Despite the victimless nature of the offense and though the gun was never used, Jose received a sentencing enhancement resulting in a life sentence. It was later reduced to 360 months (30 years) plus 5 years of supervised release.

Our team fought hard for Jose's freedom and ultimately our filing of a compassionate release motion through the Cannabis Justice Initiative is what led to him returning home. Had it not been for this work, led by lead CJI attorney Liz Budnitz, Jose would still be in prison today.

While inside, LPP supported Jose as part of our advocacy program to raise awareness for his case and provide direct support via letter writing, commissary assistance, and now recieving a reentry grant that he has been released.

We are thrilled to know he has now been reunited with his family, including his wife of over 40 years. While incarcerated, Jose’s children grew up, graduated college, and had children of their own. His siblings have passed away without him.

Jose has worked hard to better himself behind bars but we are excited to help him rebuild his life post-release through our reentry and readiness programs which will provide both financial support and practical tools to help him find a job and get back on his feet.