In 2008, Raymond Austin was arrested for burglary. He was given a life sentence because he had prior convictions.
While incarcerated, he worked as a nurse’s aide on the geriatric and hospice unit of the healthcare ward. When he received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease in 2016, he insisted on working and caring for the patients around him, even as he became a patient. Mr. Austin maintained a perfect disciplinary record throughout his incarceration.
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 Mr. Austin at his parole hearing. In light of his conduct record, his family support, and his illness, a unanimous board granted him to be released to the care of his niece who is a nurse.
He was freed in February 2025 after serving 16 years of a life sentence.
