SUMMARY:
Maria Aredondo is an elderly woman currently undergoing chemotherapy for stage 2 breast cancer. Maria’s battle with cancer and other health conditions makes her especially vulnerable to the deadly effects of contracting Covid-19. Maria is serving time at the California Institution for Women (CIW), where there are confirmed cases of Covid-19. CIW is an overpopulated prison where it is impossible to abide by social distancing. Maria’s immune system is also severely compromised by chemotherapy. In order for Maria to survive Covid-19, she urgently needs clemency.

Maria’s family is able to house her and care for her outside of prison. They are eager to support her in her fight with cancer, including helping her access proper medical care and providing her with emotional support and a nutritional diet to keep her strong during chemotherapy.

Please join us in asking Governor Gavin Newsom to commute Maria Aredondo’s Life Without Parole sentence to time served.

BACKGROUND:
Maria Aredondo is an elderly woman who has been incarcerated for 17 years. On top of medical issues associated with her age of 67, Maria was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer and she is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Maria has a Life Without Possibility of Parole (LWOP) sentence, making her ineligible for release. Her only hope for release is a commutation of sentence by California’s Governor Newsom.  

Maria is adored by many inside prison, she listens and encourages women to live life positively. In the Protestant Spanish church services, Maria is a light to many of the women. She supports and encourages them to commit to their spiritual growth as they recover from trauma and build new lives. Throughout her sentence she has taken the time to mentor younger women, offering support in any way she can.

Maria, like other elderly women at CIW, has experienced many forms of negligence while incarcerated This includes receiving medical treatment months after her requests for help. Maria’s family is able to house her and care for her outside of prison. They are eager to support her in her fight with cancer, including helping her access urgent medical care and providing her with emotional support and a nutritional diet to keep her strong during chemotherapy.

Maria’s children are eagerly awaiting their mother’s return. Maria prays to spend her last years with her children and grandchildren.

We urge Governor Newsom to commute Maria Aredondo’s sentence and allow her to spend her remaining time in the care of her loving family.

Please visit carenotcages.com to support more medically vulnerable incarcerated folks.