Unexpected Help

Help came from an unexpected place.

I did a lifer hearing today.  A lifer hearing is an effort to get parole by a prisoner in prison for life. He goes in front of two commissioners who decide whether he stays in prison or goes free. (But the governor has the last word: the governor can block parole.)

My client was helped today by the prosecutor sent from the county of his conviction. She supported parole. That almost never happens.  She supported parole because a year ago my client testified against the drug kingpin who literally called the shots - ordered the murder - that sent my client to prison. My client testified against him at risk to himself and to his family.

My client was the getaway driver. He has served 21 years.

My client got parole. When the chairman said that my client was suitable for parole, my client gaped. Then he came close to breaking down.

Now his freedom goes to the governor.

Outside the small prison hearing room, there is a large room where prisoners and visitors meet. Usually, these rooms have prisoner-made artwork. This room had a single painting. The painting showed a sandy beach, and waves, and rocks with white water around them. It showed arching palm trees. It showed green plants and a blue parrot and a red parrot. It showed a small, empty boat on the sand. The painting is freedom pornography.