Name: Joseph Akers, Reg. #65108-066
DOB: July 29
Race: Black/Muslim
Raised: North Philadelphia, PA
Tried: Eastern District of Pennsylvania
Will live: Limerick, PA
Charges: Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana (21 USC § 841(a)(1)(A)); Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering (18 USC 1956)
Trial or plea: Plead Guilty
Sentenced on: July 20, 2018
Priors: Minor charges
Prison Conduct: Exemplary; has completed many programs
Clemency status: Pending
Release date: May 8, 2031
Institution: FCI Fort Dix, P.O. Box 2000, Joint Base MDL, NJJ 08640
Supporters: Family, Friends, FreedomGrow, CAN-DO Foundation, Lisa Jacobi
Health issues: None
Accomplishments: Over 50 Courses Completed to date.
According to Joseph: I’d like to focus on what is the main and most important to me; my family, and they need me home. My wife is doing everything she can, and I am so embarrassed that as a man I am not there to help her with our six children, and everyday life. My children are suffering from my being away, and don’t understand it when it is legal in most states now. Regardless, I now know that what I did was wrong, and I will never make that mistake again. I must rebuild relationships with my wife and children and family. I am more than remorseful, and I knew that selling drugs was wrong, which is why I was living a law-abiding life when I was arrested. I vow to never reoffend as embarrassment and shame are the reasons for living a law-abiding life. Thank you for your time.
Release plan: Housing-If released on clemency, Mr. Akers has a loving and caring family who are committed to assisting him in a successful reentry to society. He also has many friends in the community who plan to assist him as well. Mr. Akers would return to Pennsylvania to live with his wife and children. Employment-Mr. Akers plans on securing employment immediately upon release to be able to provide and care for his family. He also plans to finish Real Estate School so he can obtain his license. In Aker’s own words, “I intend to work multiple jobs, including general construction work with a company in Philadelphia. I also plan to return to Instacart for additional income opportunity.”
For more information on Joseph, see a video prepared by Jailed For Weed: https://youtu.be/tTcT1nwwTYQ
