Kim Kardashian’s fight for criminal justice reform continues. The reality star is now seeking to help a Pennsylvania man get released after his life sentence was commuted.
Governor Tom Wolf commuted David Sheppard’s life sentence after he served 25 years for his role in a 1992 robbery where his accomplice shot and killed a man. But unfortunately, he was re-arrested and sent to Delaware County jail upon his release.
Delaware County authorities claim Sheppard has an outstanding warrant stemming from a 1992 shoplifting incident. He is accused of stealing five pairs of jeans priced at $324.95 in total from the Jeans West Store. It’s important to note that he had these charges before his life sentence and to make matters worse, the store doesn’t even exist anymore.
The beauty mogul caught wind of Sheppard’s unfair predicament and sounded off on Twitter. “This morning after serving 25yrs David Sheppard was due to be released – instead he remains in custody over a 30yr old shoplifting case,” Kardashian said.
Sheppard is scheduled to see a judge Monday morning, and Kim Kardashian is hoping that he can be re-released and reunite with his family.
“David Sheppard should have been reunited with his family, but he remains in custody and must appear in court on Monday in Delaware County,” she continued. “It’s imperative that the judge corrects this wrong on Monday so he can regain the freedom he so rightfully deserves.”
Delaware County District Attorney Katayoun M. Copeland responded to the growing backlash sparked by Kim claiming she’s giving the “victims” a voice by holding Sheppard accountable for this charge. “The current climate of the criminal justice system: convicted felons are being empowered and extended leniency at the direct expense of victims and their families,” her statement reads. “The issue here is not about a shoplifting charge it is the complete failure of the criminal justice system to give victims and their families a voice.”
Fortunately, this will be one of her last cases because Jack Stollsteimer will be taking her seat in office. His campaign was centered around reform and he promised to review the case as soon as he can. “I’m looking forward to reviewing his case and trying to understand why anybody thinks it’s in the interest of justice and the best use of public resources to hold this man accountable for a crime that happened 27 years ago,” he said. “There has to be a reason. It can’t just be that we’re being vindictive.”