Key Insights
Why does Gary Settle help other inmates get out of prison through compassionate release?
He feels compelled to help because it's empowering to see someone go home from a cancer floor, aligns with his upbringing, and he believes many in the criminal justice system don't want people released. He wants to show judges that these inmates are not a threat and just want to go home and mend fences with their families.
What is compassionate release?
Compassionate release is a policy that allows inmates to petition to be let out of prison for 'extraordinary and compelling' reasons, often related to severe health issues.
Where is Gary Settle currently located?
Gary Settle is at FMC Butner, a federal prison hospital in North Carolina that houses inmates with significant health issues.
What are some notable inmates who have been treated at FMC Butner?
Bernie Madoff and Ted Kaczynski, both infamous criminals, were treated at FMC Butner.
How many people have been granted compassionate release since 2019?
Over 5,000 people across the country have been granted compassionate release since 2019.
What motivates Gary Settle to continue helping inmates?
He is motivated by the empowerment of seeing someone go home, his upbringing, and his belief that many in the criminal justice system don't want people released. He also wants to show judges that these inmates are not threats and just want to spend time with their families.
Chapters
- Gary Settle is confined to his cell for parts of the day.
- He attends a class on living with chronic illness and mentors other inmates.
- His chemotherapy limits his outdoor time due to flushing and purple face.
Shownotes Transcript
