Resistance Behind Bars: The Struggles of Incarcerated Women

We are hoping to help secure the release of another survivor Carol Sue McInnis. Please take a moment to send a free fax to Governor Schwarzenegger at http://www.freebatteredwomen.org/Alert_Carol_Sue.html urging him to release incarcerated domestic violence survivor Carol Sue McInnis.

Carol Sue McInnis a 70-year-old battered woman who has served nearly 20 years on a 15-to-life sentence for the death of her abusive and manipulative husband. On February 5th, 2009 the Board of Parole Hearings found Ms. McInnis suitable for parole, and she needs your support to secure her release!

Ms. McInnis uses a wheelchair and an oxygen tank full-time. She is currently at the infirmary at Valley State Prison for Women and has been diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Diabetes. Ms. McInnis had a stroke shortly after she was incarcerated and was declared medically disabled in 1992. Due to extensive medical limitations, vocation, education, and group therapy have been virtually impossible for her to participate in during her incarceration.

During her time in prison, through self-reflection and personal growth Ms. McInnis has gained tremendous insight and is very remorseful for her actions. Despite her health limitations, Ms. McInnis completed one-on-one psychotherapy sessions to deal with her grief and dependency issues. She took stress management and anger management classes when they were offered to her medical housing unit. She has also participated in Breaking Barriers, the Long Termers Organization, Christian-based programming, and drafted self-study book reports.

The Governor has until July 4th to decide whether to uphold Carol Sue's release. Please add your voice to those calling for Ms. McInnis? freedom by sending the Governor a free fax at http://www.freebatteredwomen.org/alerts.html

Thank you for joining us in the fight for Carol Sue's freedom!