This group picture was taken at USP Florence nearly six years ago.

In a recent message, Ross said: "Myself and other drug offenders serving life took this picture in 2018. Since then, three have gone free. I hope and pray my turn will come someday."

Ross started 2024 with a long prison lockdown due to violence inside the prison. During a lockdown, Ross can't call or have visits and he is locked in his 8x10ft cell all day. Below are messages from him: 

"A prison lockdown and a migraine. Not a great start to 2024. Still, I am intent on keeping my spirits up no matter what. Something about a new year ahead of me is inspiring."

"Three weeks into the lockdown. I have run out of the good drinking water I saved up. Oh well…one day at a time. This will eventually end. Lots of meditation and reading. I’m seeing it as a retreat, albeit a forced one."

"Over 4 weeks into the lockdown. Each day just blurs into the next. The lack of sun and fresh air throws off my sleep cycle, but my meditation practice is thriving and I'm getting fit with daily workouts. Could be worse."

"Week 5 of the lockdown is over. Week 6 begins. It's also the end of my first “new month resolution”: to eat healthy. I did pretty well, even after I ran out of peanuts and tuna. I feel healthy and strong, especially for having been in an 8x10ft box for weeks."

"I sprouted an apple seed in my cell window to keep me and my cellmate company during the lockdown."

2024 is Ross's 11th year in prison. During his incarceration, he has been a model prisoner and helped others. He deserves a second chance at life. He would never, never break the law again. 

 Visit FreeRoss.org to learn more about Ross and his case and why so many support his clemency.

–  #FreeRoss Team