Armando Gutierrez

Armando Gutierrez, currently serving a 120-month sentence for a non-violent marijuana offense in federal prison, is a man grappling with the complexities of a legal system that contrasts sharply with the changing landscape of marijuana legislation across the United States. While marijuana is legal in many states, Armando finds himself incarcerated due to the legal status in his home state. This situation leaves him questioning the fairness of the justice system. Armando's incarceration has come with immense personal sacrifices, most notably the loss of his mother, a painful absence compounded by his inability to attend her funeral. Separated from his family for too long, including an 83-year-old father, Armando yearns to reunite with them upon his release. Despite the challenges, Armando is determined to make the most of his freedom. His immediate plans involve visiting his mother's resting place and reconnecting with his aging father. He focuses on reintegration, navigating the process from the halfway house to securing employment while steering clear of illegal activities. Armando advocates for a reconsideration of marijuana-related incarcerations, emphasizing the strain on federal prisons and the potential benefits of legalization. His story sheds light on the broader issues within the penal system and the need for reform.