Brief Summary
This podcast episode features Sabrina Salvat interviewing Halo and her daughter Aspen about Aspen's legal ordeal. Aspen faces a mandatory minimum of 33 years in prison for a crime she claims she didn't commit, highlighting issues within the justice system, including guilt by association, racial disparities, and the impact of the for-profit prison system. The discussion covers the events leading to Aspen's arrest, the challenges she faced in jail, and the financial burden of fighting the charges.
- Aspen, a starving artist, faces a 33-year mandatory minimum sentence for drug-related charges despite claims of innocence.
- The case highlights potential racial bias and the influence of wealth within the justice system.
- The financial strain of legal representation and investigation is significant, prompting fundraising efforts.
Introduction
Sabrina Salvat introduces Halo and her daughter Aspen, who is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 33 years for a crime she asserts she did not commit. The host expresses her bafflement at the charges and the events that led to them, setting the stage for a detailed explanation of the situation.
The Events Leading to the Arrest
Halo explains that Aspen went to visit a friend and planned to sell her art at music festivals. Aspen ended up travelling with a friend of her friend to a festival in Florida. On their way back, they were pulled over in Georgia due to the smell of marijuana. Despite the driver claiming ownership of all drugs found, Aspen was arrested and charged with the same offences.
The Arrest and Jail Experience
Halo details the harsh conditions Aspen faced in jail, including denial of her inhaler and B12 shots, which are essential for her health due to Ellers Stanlo syndrome. The jail segregated inmates by race and had a hierarchy system that limited their time in common areas. Aspen was forced to urinate on the side of the road during the arrest, and her ID was taken home by the arresting officer.
Legal Proceedings and Challenges
Halo discusses the financial strain of the legal battle, including bail costs and the need for a private investigator and lawyer. She expresses concern that Aspen is being unfairly targeted due to her lack of a criminal record and the racial dynamics in Southern Georgia. The magistrate acknowledged the driver's history of drug-related activities and questioned Aspen's involvement, but the charges remain.
The Mandatory Minimum Sentence and Disparities
Aspen and Halo explain that the 33-year mandatory minimum sentence stems primarily from the marijuana charges, which carry surprisingly severe penalties in Georgia. They highlight the absurdity of the situation, where Aspen faces decades in prison despite the driver claiming responsibility for the drugs and his history of similar offences. They believe the system is acting in bad faith, prioritising money over justice.
Systemic Issues and Personal Impact
Halo shares anecdotes about other inmates, highlighting the system's failure to accommodate individuals with mental health issues or special needs. Aspen reflects on the dark side of the justice system and the realisation that it often targets the vulnerable rather than protecting the community. The legal battle has put their lives on hold, preventing Aspen from starting her criminal psychology studies.
Guilt by Association and Racial Bias
Sabrina points out that Aspen is essentially guilty by association and questions whether the driver, who comes from a wealthy family, will face the same consequences. Halo expresses concern that the driver is continuing his activities while Aspen's life is on hold. The magistrate's comments about the driver's history further highlight the unfairness of Aspen's situation.
The Need for Support and Awareness
Sabrina emphasises that Aspen is not at fault and criticises the for-profit prison system that prioritises profit over justice. She encourages listeners to donate to the GoFundMe campaign to support Aspen's legal defence. Halo shares the GoFundMe link and her Twitter handle, HaloBenson, for updates.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Halo and Aspen express their gratitude and stress that this situation could happen to anyone. They urge listeners to be careful and support each other. Sabrina reiterates the importance of donating to the GoFundMe campaign and highlights the systemic corruption within the justice system.
