Case Summary
SCSJ is challenging North Carolina’s parole system in federal court on behalf of Brett Abrams, who was sentenced to life in prison in 1983 at the age of 14 for a senseless and tragic crime. For the last 15 years, Abrams has been in minimum custody and on work release, successfully working in the community for at least 40 hours a week. He has not had any infraction in 17 years, has received his GED, and taken advantage of classes, therapeutic opportunities, and community enrichment options.
Despite his impressive prison record, Abrams has been repeatedly denied parole since 1993. The lawsuit challenges the Parole Commission’s process as being arbitrary and capricious, and failing to provide a meaningful opportunity for Abrams to receive parole as required under the Eighth Amendment.
Why it's Important
The Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution requires that people who were sentenced to prison as children receive a meaningful opportunity to obtain release based on demonstrated maturity and rehabilitation.
Other Related Cases
Karon Joye
SCSJ is submitting a clemency petition to the Juvenile Sentencing Review Board (JSRB) on behalf of Karon Joye. Karon was sentenced to over 34 years in prison for a crime he committed when he was 14 years old.
Learn MoreState v. Joseph Jones
SCSJ is seeking relief for Joseph Jones, who was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole in 2000. Joseph was 13 years old when he was arrested with his 16-year-old uncle and his uncle’s 17-year-old girlfriend for the murder and rape of a 10-year-old girl.
Learn More