Man released from prison after sentenced 40-60 years for marijuana, guns

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    FLINT, MI (WNEM) — A Flint man who was granted clemency has been released from prison after he was sentenced to 40 to 60 years for selling weed and owning guns.

Michael Thompson, 69, was released from the Charles Egeler Center in Jackson early Thursday morning, Jan. 28.

“At one time I didn’t think I would ever get out,” Thompson said after his release. “Now that I’ve got that out of the way. I just want to let you know that I’m happy.”

He was joined by his two daughters, granddaughter, attorney, and other supporters.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer commuted Thompson’s sentence on Dec. 22.

In the 90s, Thompson sold three pounds of marijuana and authorities found guns in his home after they raided it.

He was then sentenced to 40 to 60 years in prison.

The non-violent offender has served 22 years in prison and previously had the earliest release date of 2038.

Thompson has also gained the support of Attorney General Dana Nessel and Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton.

TV5 brought you Thompson’s story in a special report almost a year ago.

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II released the following statement after Thompson and three other men, who were also granted clemency by Gov. Whitmer, were released from prison:

“For these four men, today has been a long time in the making. It represents the ending of their debt to society and the beginning of an opportunity for better days. It’s also a chance to reconnect with their families, neighborhoods, and communities in a way that proves our commitment to second chances and providing pathways to full participation in civic life. Governor Whitmer and I will continue to prioritize a more equitable and just criminal legal system, and every step forward is a step in the right direction.”

Attorney General Dana Nessel released the following statement:

“Mr. Thompson’s release from prison was long overdue, and I trust his debt to society has been paid in full. While he was rightfully convicted of criminal acts many years ago, the sentence he served was severe and based on laws from a different era. As our legal system has since been reformed, prolonging Mr. Thompson’s time in prison any longer would have been unjust. Our criminal justice system, while not perfect, continues to evolve toward something better. Mr. Thompson is not only a product of that evolution, but a person who has served the punishment for his actions and he has the right to begin living his life as a free man.”

Thompson is going to Flint to stay with his family and wants to advocate for prison reform.

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