Rebuilding A Life
LPP's update on Michael Thompson - Life after incarceration!
At 4 am on January 28, Michael Thompson was released from prison in Jackson, Michigan.
Thompson, who was sentenced to 40-60 years on charges stemming from a low-level 1994 cannabis sale, has since been reunited with the family members and loved ones he hasn't seen in over 25 years.
From start to finish, Michael's case has been a testament to the power of community and collective action.
After his clemency petition was submitted, hundreds of thousands of supporters across the country called, emailed, and wrote Governor Whitmer, urging her to commute his egregious sentence.
Michael has long expressed a desire to use his voice to advocate for those left behind.
Upon his release, he immediately made a point to call attention to the urgent need for expansive prison and drug policy reform and pledged to dedicate his life in service of this important cause.
Now, after 25 years of incarceration, we've been thrilled to witness this community rally around Michael by providing the financial means he needs to purchase a home and begin the process of rebuilding his life.
He drove for the first time in 25 years (and was a total pro), closed on a brand new condo, and has already started furnishing his new home.
LPP is so incredibly grateful for all of the love and support this community has shown Michael.
In less than a month after his release from a 25 year prison sentence he has a new home, was approved for a job in the cannabis industry, and is becoming a prominent advocate for criminal justice reform in Michigan and beyond.
We are so thrilled that Michael can take his newfound freedom to focus on what he is most passionate about: being an advocate for change.
Michael asked LPP to express his eternal gratitude for these efforts.
It goes without saying that without your support, he would likely still be behind bars.
LPP would like to say thank you to Deedee Kirkwood, Attorney Kimberly Corral, The Grassroots Law Project, Tana Ganeva, and all of the members of the Michigan Cannabis Freedom Coalition for their tireless advocacy on Michael’s behalf.
Also a special thanks to Shaun King, Ascend Wellness, Cresco Labs, Rose Mary Jane, C3 Industries, Sozo, and UBaked for their support and generosity, and to LPP Managing Director Mary Bailey for being such a huge help to Michael on the ground in Michigan!
