Roommates, we are happy to report Cyntoia Brown is officially a free woman!
According to CNN, Cyntoia was released from prison early Wednesday morning after being granted clemency by Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam. The Tennessee Department of Corrections confirms Cyntoia is now free to go!
As we previously reported, Cyntoia was sentenced to life in prison for killing a man who bought her for sex when she was 16. After spending 15 years in jail, Cyntoia was released to parole supervision.
Her high-profile case draws the attention of celebrities, advocates and lawmakers, who lobby on her behalf to get justice! It has even prompted the creation of a documentary.
The year is 2004, and Cyntoia is sentenced to life in prison in connection with the killing of a 43-year-old man. At just 16-years-old, Cyntoia is tried as an adult and convicted of first-degree murder, first degree felony murder and aggravated robbery.
Cyntoia’s sentence comes with the requirement to serve at least 51 years in prison before becoming eligible for parole. Cyntoia serves 15 years, and is now a free woman.
Throughout her case, Cyntoia maintains her actions are a result of defending herself. She says at 16 she is solicited for sex by Johnny Mitchell Allen. She says she is forced into prostitution by Allen, and believes he is going to kill her. In self-defense, she reaches for a gun in her purse and shoots him, according to her testimony.
Cyntoia proceeds to take Allen’s wallet, causing the prosecution to argue she had shot him in an attempt to rob him.
The year is 2018 and #FreeCyntoiaBrown sparks a widespread conversation regarding Cyntoia’s case. Kim Kardashinan West and Rihanna are among the list of celebs who are advocating on Cyntoia’s behalf!
While in prison, Cyntoia receives her associate degree from Lipscomb University in 2015. According to The Tennessean, she’s also obtained a bachelor’s degree in the Tennessee Prison for Women.
We wish Cyntoia all the best, and pray she has a smooth transition into her new life!
