In 2008, Cefus Jenkins was arrested for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. Because he had prior drug convictions, prosecutors sought an enhanced sentence for him under the habitual offender laws, and he was given a life without parole sentence. With no violent prior convictions, Mr. Jenkins could not receive that sentence under today’s laws.
In prison, Mr. Jenkins dove fully into his passion for learning and for creativity. He entered prison with his GED and so became a GED tutor. He learned Arabic, Spanish and American Sign Language. He tutored others in Arabic and interpreted prison church services for hearing-impaired worshippers. He took many self-help programs and served as a mentor. He earned carpentry and machinery operation certificates, and was a contributing member of the Literary Arts Program at Angola, where he hosted poetry events.
In 2021, a law passed giving people sentenced to life for non-violent crimes a chance at parole after serving 15 years. Innocence & Justice Louisiana represented him before the parole board, and because of his many achievements he was granted another opportunity for freedom.
Mr. Jenkins was released in January 2025, after serving more than 16 years in prison.
