Free Robert Deals: A Veteran’s Unjust Incarceration
The story of Robert Deals, a 10-year Air Force veteran, embodies a striking contradiction in the era of cannabis legalization. Currently serving his 12th year of an 18-year sentence in a Yuma, Arizona prison for cannabis charges, Robert’s plight has ignited the #FreeRobertDeals campaign. This movement is not just a call for Robert’s freedom, but a spotlight on the lingering injustices in the cannabis industry.
The Free Robert Deals Campaign: A Rallying Cry for Justice
Led by his daughter Alicia Deals, the #FreeRobertDeals campaign, supported by Berner and the Last Prisoner Project, seeks to address the stark disparities within the legal system. As Arizona embraces cannabis legalization and social equity, Robert’s continued incarceration stands as a testament to the urgent need for reform.
Proposition 207 and the Irony of Progress
The passing of Proposition 207 in Arizona marked a significant shift, legalizing recreational marijuana and establishing a social equity licensing program. Alicia Deals, benefiting from this progress, received a social equity license and is poised to open a dispensary. Yet, this progress casts a shadow over Robert’s ongoing sentence for a similar act, underlining the campaign’s critical importance.
Alicia Deals: A Daughter’s Determination
Alicia’s journey, although marked by success in the industry, is fundamentally intertwined with her father’s freedom. Her achievements in obtaining a social equity license and opening a dispensary serve as both a triumph and a constant reminder of the battle for her father’s release. “My father was given 18 years on a cannabis charge, and it gave me the motivation to go into the program and flourish in this industry,” Alicia expresses.
The Paradox of Legalization
As Alicia prepared for her dispensary’s grand opening, the irony of her situation was not lost. While she thrives in an industry that once criminalized her father’s actions, Robert remains imprisoned. This dichotomy is at the heart of the #FreeRobertDeals campaign, highlighting the need for a reevaluation of past convictions in light of new legislation.
Conclusion: A Unified Voice for Clemency
The #FreeRobertDeals campaign transcends the story of one man. It embodies a broader struggle for justice in an evolving legal landscape. As Alicia and supporters await Robert’s petition for post-conviction relief, the campaign continues its mission to not only free Robert but also to set a precedent for others unjustly incarcerated under outdated cannabis laws.
