| Linney Duncan |
 |
I am a prisoner of the War on Drugs, and a victim of
Mandatory Minimum Sentencing. I am a male 36 years old and was
sentenced to ten years at FCI Beckley West Virginia in 1997 for
conspiracy to sell cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine. I
am a low level, non-violent, first time offender with a few state
priors but no other drug charges.
I became involved in a life of drugs from a previous marriage.
It was a very destructive marriage from the start; one which
involved using and selling of drugs. I was the little guy ( the
gofer ). Most of the time all I made off a deal was cocaine to
supply my own habit and that of my ex-wife. Other times I was
sent by her uncle to get a supply of pot or cocaine for him,
not knowing the dealer was wired by the Feds. It wasn't even
my deal. There were a few times I made runs for myself and I
trusted these guys by telling them of my connection, which also
got on tape. Therefore, I am here. Because of mandatory minimum
sentencing I was unable to use these extenuating circumstances
at my sentencing.
I have a new wife and a 9 year old daughter who are having
a rough go of it with my incarceration both physically and mentally.
They visit me once a week here. The drive is only 2.5 hours from
home so it's not too bad.
My wife is a remarkable lady; she has devoted many hours working
with organizations like NOVEMBER to get my freedom. She writes
letters to legislators and is constantly on the Internet keeping
up with what is happening with the war on drugs, not only for
me, but for all of the prisoners of these harsh drug laws. We
prisoners need all the help we can get. Had I met her years ago
my life would not be in this mess. I also could not use the fact
that I had a new wife and a new drug free life at my sentencing
because of MMS. Her being the strong eager and loving person
she is has been by far more rehabilitating for me than any amount
of prison term they could hand to me and now they have taken
that from me. Is this justice?
Back to the Wall
Next Prisoner of the
War on Drugs
