Jim Howard’s Freedom Fund

We are thrilled to announce the release of three of IPNO’s Unjust Punishment Project clients, all granted parole on the same day: Michael Colton, Cody Fleming, and Jim Howard. All of these men had been serving life sentences for drug distribution. Together, they served more than 55 years in prison.

When Michael, Cody, and Jim were sentenced to life in prison, they had no hope of release. But in 2021, that changed. The Louisiana legislature passed a law to give people like Michael, Cody and Jim a chance at freedom. Michael, Jim and Cody were some of the first people to have their hearings under this new law. All three were granted parole unanimously.

While in prison, Michael Colton taught himself to read, completed many programs available to him, led his treatment group, became a trustee, and worked as a cook. After more than 16 years in prison, Michael was released from prison on parole.

Cody Fleming did not let a life sentence deter him from committing his life to learning. Cody earned his GED, a carpentry certificate, and completed many other programs in prison. Cody served more than 19 years in prison before he had a chance at parole.

During Jim’s almost 20 years in prison he developed an esteemed reputation for his peaceful demeanor and his cooking and baking skills. He was a trustee and had an exemplary conduct record. Jim was released into the arms of his wife, Paula, and his sister Arleen.

Parole is often only a path to freedom if you have a lawyer. In Louisiana, only 1 in 3 people who go to their parole hearings without a lawyer are granted parole. But of people who have a lawyer, 70% are granted parole. Unfortunately, only 12% of people have lawyers at their parole hearings. IPNO’s Unjust Punishment Project is changing this. We are proud to have been able to sit with Michael, Cody and Jim and advocate for their release from these draconian sentences.

Please help us welcome Michael, Cody, and Jim home by contributing to their Freedom Funds or choosing an item from their wish list. Please consider showing generosity to each of these remarkable men as they begin the challenging process of rebuilding their lives.