LWOP Sentencing: The Harsh Reality of Life Without Parole
Being sentenced to life without parole (LWOP) is one of the harshest sentences an individual can face in the criminal justice system. This type of sentence can have profound psychological and emotional impacts on the person sentenced. Through the lens of Anthony B. Sanders, a 52-year-old African American who was sentenced to LWOP in 2016, this article explores the reality of life without parole, the emotional and psychological toll it takes, and how different individuals may adapt to this life-changing situation.
The Case of Anthony B. Sanders
In 2016, Anthony B. Sanders, a high school dropout who joined a gang at the age of 13, was convicted of murder, attempted murder, and several other felonies. His case reflects the difficult journey many face when sentenced to LWOP. Upon sentencing, he received a term of LWOP plus 168 years. He was sent to North Kern Valley, a Level 5 prison, where he lost the ability to engage in his previous criminal activities.
Anthony filed for an appeal on May 4, 2016, and the case was completed on December 20, 2017. His sole contention was that the judge ordered him to pay $50,000 in restitution rather than the $10,000 specified in the guidelines. Despite the appeals process, Anthony accepted his circumstances. In prison, life without parole can be a double-edged sword. While everything is taken care of in terms of necessities, the emotional and psychological toll is immense.
The Emotional and Psychological Impact
Being sentenced to life without parole can cause profound emotional and psychological effects on the individual. Here are some of the key impacts that individuals might experience:
Despair and Hopelessness
Prisoners often experience a sense of despair and hopelessness, as they realize that their life will not return to the normalcy they once knew. This can lead to deep emotional distress and a sense of futility.
Isolation
Life in prison can be profoundly isolating. The possibility of reintegration into society is often removed, leading to a sense of permanence and separation from the outside world.
Regret and Guilt
Many individuals convicted of crimes reflect deeply on their past actions and feel profound regret and guilt. They may recognize the impact of their crimes on victims and their families and struggle with these feelings.
The Psychological Effects
The weight of a life sentence can contribute to mental health issues such as:
Anxiety and Depression
Life in prison can be anxiety-inducing, and the lack of control over one's life can contribute to depression. These mental health struggles can be exacerbated by the social isolation and structured nature of life behind bars.
Adjustment Issues
Adapting to the harsh realities of prison life can be challenging. Inmates often struggle with the limited freedom, strict schedules, and strict regulations that govern daily life.
Daily Life in Prison
Life in prison is highly structured, with limited autonomy and freedom. Here are some aspects of daily life:
Routine
Prison life involves adhering to strict schedules for meals, activities, and bedtime. Limited freedom can be a significant adjustment for individuals who were used to more autonomy before their conviction.
Relationships
Building relationships with fellow inmates can be both a source of support and a challenge. Inmates may form alliances, but conflicts can also arise in a highly competitive environment.
Activities
Opportunities for education, work, and rehabilitation programs vary by facility. Engaging in constructive activities is a form of solace for some, while others may find it difficult to adapt to these structured programs.
Long-Term Considerations
Life without parole requires individuals to consider the long-term impact on their lives:
Legacy and Meaning
Some prisoners grapple with the search for meaning and purpose. This can lead to positive contributions within the prison system, such as mentorship or rehabilitation work.
Family Connections
Maintaining relationships with family can be a source of strength, but it can also be painful if those ties are strained or severed due to prison time.
Being sentenced to life without parole is a profound and often devastating experience that impacts every aspect of one’s life. Each person's response to this sentence can vary based on their personality, support systems, and the specific circumstances of their situation.