Nationwide — Cyntoia Brown, a woman from Tennessee who was 16-years old when she killed a 43-year-old man who solicited her for sex, must serve at least 51 years in prison before she would be eligible for release, the Tennessee Supreme Court has decided.
In 2004, Brown was raped and forced to prostitution by her boyfriend, a 24-year old pimp known as “Kut Throat.” That was when 43-year old John Mitchell Allen solicited her for sex and brought her to his home.
There, Brown feared for her life when she thought Allen was reaching for his gun to shoot her, she said during the trial. She then took a handgun from her purse and shot him first, killing him.
Brown, who was tried as an adult, was convicted of first-degree murder, felony murder, and aggravated robbery because prosecutors believed that she shot him to rob him and not to defend herself. She was sentenced to life in prison.
Brown has described her life sentence as a “cruel and unusual punishment” and filed a lawsuit claiming that her life sentence is unconstitutional because in 2012 the U.S. Supreme court already ruled against life-without-parole sentences for juveniles as it violates the U.S. Constitution.
As a response, on Thursday, five justices in the Tennessee Supreme Court’s decided unanimously against Brown, citing that defendants like Brown, who were sentenced to life imprisonment after July 1, 1995, can’t be eligible for release from prison without serving for at least 51 years.
Prior to that, a district court in Tennessee denied Brown’s motion noting that she wasn’t really sentenced to life-without-parole sentence — just a life sentence.
Brown has appealed the decision, which is pending judgment by the US Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Brown’s case was featured in a 2011 PBS documentary titled “Me Facing Life: Cyntoia’s Story.” Her case has also got the attention and support of numerous celebrities such as Kim Kardashian West, Rihanna, Snoop Dogg, and Lebron James who were raising awareness about Brown being the victim of sex trafficking.
Using the hashtag #FreeCyntoiaBrown, people in social media voiced out their thoughts about Brown’s case. Most of them were pointing out how White men and women who commit crimes were often given lighter sentences than Black people.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
