A South Florida man will soon be free after spending more than 20 years in prison for a federal drug charge. His release was made possible by a Texas attorney – and reality TV star Kim Kardashian-West.
Jeffrey Stringer was arrested in West Palm Beach in the late 90’s. He was supposed to spend his life in jail, but now he has a second chance.
Jacaria Stringer has been alive for as long as her father has been in jail.
“Only thing I know is his birthday and where his prison is at. I don’t really know too much. I haven’t had the chance to meet him outside,” said Jacaria. “I never even thought I’d get to see him out of prison, so it feels good.”
The release was made possible thanks to Kim Kardashian-West and Texas attorney Brittany Barnett.
Kardashian-West has made criminal justice reform her mission. She event went to the White House last year to meet with President Trump to ask him for his support.
Barnett traveled to Miami on Friday to support Stringer’s family in court when the federal judge announced he would be a free man.
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“Someone’s life is in your hands. Their entire life. I don’t take it lightly. It’s an honor and a privilege for me to do this work and for Jeffrey to trust me with his life,” said Barnett.
Barnett knew all too well what it’s like to have a parent in prison – her mom was in jail for three years.
“I know firsthand that mass incarceration devastates families and entire communities,” said Barnett.
Now, she’s helping others, like Stringer’s family, so those sentenced to life in prison for drug offenses may have a second chance at life.
“To have served 22 years in prison, laboring under the dark cloud of dying there, and to get a second chance at life, it’s beautiful,” said Barnett.
Stringer’s family told NBC 6 that they had a FaceTime call with Kardashian-West following Friday’s hearing.
Jeffrey’s mother says he plans on mentoring young men in his community, to teach them not to go down the same path that he did more than 20 years ago.
He is set to be released from prison on Monday.
