Cannabis Cares

And now for an update from DeeDee Kirkwood, aka the Pot Fairy, regarding her longtime advocacy for Michael Thompson. Readers may recall from the CBTS Summer issue, Michael is the longest held non-violent prisoner in the history of Michigan, where cannabis is now legal, serving the 25th year of a life sentence for possession of three pounds of pot.

“The parole board hearing went extremely well,” said DeeDee. “December 11th they met to make their recommendation to the governor. So Michael could hear at any time now that he will be free! I speak with him several times a day and despite Covid, I will fly to Michigan to welcome him when the time comes.” DeeDee Kirwood

In his hometown of Flint, Michael had a successful career as a concert promoter. While incarcerated, he’s been planning a series of concerts to benefit anti-violence efforts and is ready to take action as soon as he gets out. For more information visit freemichaelthompson.com. We look forward to your freedom, Michael—we need you working for justice from the outside.

Justine Sutton

Fyi...

On December 8, 71-year-old Richard DeLisi was released from prison after serving 31 years of a 90-year prison sentence for selling marijuana. According to the Last Prisoner Project, DeLisi is believed to be the longest-serving nonviolet cannabis prisoner, sentenced in 1989 at the age of 40.

While in prison, Richard’s wife, his 23-year old son, and both of his parents died. His daughter was in a car accident, subsequently suffering a paralyzing stroke as a result. DeLisi met his two granddaughters for the first time after his release.

While we are so very happy that Richard is now a free man, he has lost a lifetime of memories as well as family - all for a nonviolent crime. - CBTS Staff

There are still more than 40,000 Americans in prison for activities now widely legal. For more information and to learn how you can help, visit lastprisonerproject.com.