Commute Karen Brown’s sentence! 40+ years is long enough!
The Issue
Appearing before the parole board for the third time, Karen was given a “SERVE OUT” on a life sentence — meaning she will never be released from prison and can never again be considered for parole. In effect, after already serving nearly 40 years, Karen was resentenced by the Kentucky Parole Board to die in prison.
She was only 21 years old when she was arrested, and she has now been incarcerated for over 40 years. During that time, Karen has dedicated herself to growth, education, faith, and service to others. She is an individual who has spent decades working to better herself and help others.
Karen has worked tirelessly to educate herself, completing correspondence courses and earning a graduate degree in Christian counseling. Throughout her incarceration, she intentionally sought meaningful work that benefited others — including typing books in Braille for the blind, working in chapel programs, and using her art and music to inspire fellow inmates. She has built an excellent institutional record, and her Christian commitment runs deep. Karen currently leads worship at KCIW and has been instrumental in leading many people to Christ.
Karen has a packet filled with accomplishments and countless letters supporting her rehabilitation and release. She also had meaningful employment opportunities waiting for her, along with reentry organizations and individuals prepared to support her successful transition back into the community.
In addition, Karen has continued to use her voice to inspire and educate others. Since 2025, she has been providing weekly commentary for PrisonRadio.org, where listeners can hear directly from Karen about her experiences, hopes, faith, and outlook on life. These interviews are available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. There is also a website dedicated to sharing Karen’s story, including articles, photographs, and interviews: www.KyFreeKarenBrown.com
If you believe Karen Brown has been rehabilitated, reformed and redeemed, deserving of her freedom please consider signing this petition that asks for Gov Beshear and Ky to Free Karen Brown!
Governor Beshear, Karen’s sentence should be commuted and she should be released. After more than 40 years of incarceration, enough is enough.
1,585
The Issue
Appearing before the parole board for the third time, Karen was given a “SERVE OUT” on a life sentence — meaning she will never be released from prison and can never again be considered for parole. In effect, after already serving nearly 40 years, Karen was resentenced by the Kentucky Parole Board to die in prison.
She was only 21 years old when she was arrested, and she has now been incarcerated for over 40 years. During that time, Karen has dedicated herself to growth, education, faith, and service to others. She is an individual who has spent decades working to better herself and help others.
Karen has worked tirelessly to educate herself, completing correspondence courses and earning a graduate degree in Christian counseling. Throughout her incarceration, she intentionally sought meaningful work that benefited others — including typing books in Braille for the blind, working in chapel programs, and using her art and music to inspire fellow inmates. She has built an excellent institutional record, and her Christian commitment runs deep. Karen currently leads worship at KCIW and has been instrumental in leading many people to Christ.
Karen has a packet filled with accomplishments and countless letters supporting her rehabilitation and release. She also had meaningful employment opportunities waiting for her, along with reentry organizations and individuals prepared to support her successful transition back into the community.
In addition, Karen has continued to use her voice to inspire and educate others. Since 2025, she has been providing weekly commentary for PrisonRadio.org, where listeners can hear directly from Karen about her experiences, hopes, faith, and outlook on life. These interviews are available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. There is also a website dedicated to sharing Karen’s story, including articles, photographs, and interviews: www.KyFreeKarenBrown.com
If you believe Karen Brown has been rehabilitated, reformed and redeemed, deserving of her freedom please consider signing this petition that asks for Gov Beshear and Ky to Free Karen Brown!
Governor Beshear, Karen’s sentence should be commuted and she should be released. After more than 40 years of incarceration, enough is enough.
The Decision Makers
Supporter Voices
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on March 25, 2021