A man who was serving a life sentence for selling a $20 bag of marijuana to an undercover police officer was released from prison Wednesday.
Fate Winslow,53 was arrested in 2008 while homeless and living on the streets of Shreveport.
According to reports a couple of undercover cops walked up to Winslow and asked him if he knew where they could find $20 worth of marijuana. Winslow told undercover officers he he would be right back, he then borrowed a bike and came back with the marijuana.
The undercover officers in exchange gave him $5 to purchase food and then arrested him for distribution.
Winslow, who had three prior non violent convictions, was sentenced to life in prison for being a repeat offender under the Louisiana state law.
Attorney Jee Park, with Innocence Project New Orleans took Winslow’s case and got an appeal on the grounds of ineffective assistance in counsel.
She eventually had Winslow’s case re sentenced to time served after spending twelve years behind bars.
Since being released he has reconnected with his family and friends and said “ “I’m full of joy. I’m so happy, man. I got to be with my family last night once I was released, and I can’t explain it. I’m so happy.”
