In 2023, The Human Rights Watch organization published an excellent report: “I Just Want to Give Back”: The Reintegration of People Sentenced to Life Without Parole.
Read The Reintegration of People Sentenced to LWOP article at HumanRightsWatch.org
Download The Reintegration of People Sentenced to LWOP report PDF
In recent years, less than 4 percent of people sentenced to life without parole in California have been released due to changes in state law and executive power. At the time research began, there were only 143 people who fit this description. This report focuses on the historic release of these individuals and examines the positive contributions they have made with their second chances. 
The report interviews individuals who had life sentences commuted and are active social leaders, intent on creating positive change in the world. The report includes background information on the rise of LWOP, arguments used in support of LWOP sentences, LWOP in California, survey responders’ demographics, recidivism statistics, and a thorough look at life outside of prison for former LWOP prisoners. 
[ Jawad J. holds his daughter, Assiyah, next to his significant other, Aaliah H. Cypress, California. © 2021 Chip Warren for Human Rights Watch ]