Concrete Mama: The Podcast
Episode: "Climb That Rope"
Release Date: March 31, 2025

Episode Overview

"Climb That Rope," the latest episode of Concrete Mama: The Podcast, delves deep into the harrowing yet inspiring journey of Anthony Covert, a long-term inmate at the Washington State Penitentiary (WSP) in Walla Walla. Hosted by Unincarcerated Productions, this episode juxtaposes Anthony's personal redemption story with eerie ghost tales from the penitentiary, offering listeners a multifaceted view of life behind bars.

Clemency Hearing for Anthony Covert

Understanding Clemency

The episode opens with Vic Chopra explaining the intricacies of the clemency process in Washington State. Unlike other states, Washington lacks a parole system, making clemency the primary avenue for early release. Chopra outlines the factors considered by the Clemency and Pardon Board, such as the severity of the crime, remorse shown by the offender, and the support available upon release.

“The petitioner should clearly state, be sincere as to the reason for your petition.” — Vic Chopra [02:15]

Anthony Covert’s Petition

Anthony Covert, incarcerated for committing a serious crime involving the shooting of two individuals, stands before the board seeking commutation of his 36-year sentence. His attorney, Prentice Mackie Mosley, presents Anthony's background, emphasizing his troubled childhood, struggles with identity, and eventual descent into street life and crime.

Testimonies from Supporters

1. Prentice Mackie Mosley (Attorney)

   • Details Anthony's upbringing in Yakima, Washington, highlighting the challenges of being raised in foster care by an interracial adoptive family.

   • Emphasizes Anthony's perseverance despite systemic prejudices and personal struggles.

   “Love comes from the most unexpected places.” — Anthony Covert [12:45]

2. Kelly Cortez (Community Member)

   • Shares personal interactions with Anthony, noting his positive influence and readiness to reintegrate into society.

   “When I talk to Anthony and work on his case, I can for a moment escape my reality as a law student.” — Kelly Cortez [25:30]

3. Stephen Barker (Former Associate Superintendent at WSP)

   • Discusses Anthony’s role within the prison, portraying him as a leader and a rehabilitated individual who aids in correctional programs.

   “He is one of those extraordinary kind of guys that he has the ability to really relate to people.” — Stephen Barker [40:10]

4. Leonard Norling (Formerly Incarcerated Individual)

   • Reflects on Anthony's character and growth, asserting that Anthony has become a better man than the crime he committed.

   “He exhibits perseverance, resiliency above and beyond my capacity at his current age.” — Leonard Norling [55:20]

5. Mr. Norton (Community Supporter)

   • Offers assurances of financial and emotional support for Anthony upon his release, underlining the community's readiness to aid his transition.

   “I believe there's more pressing things that I can provide for him.” — Mr. Norton [1:10:45]

Anthony’s Personal Redemption

Throughout the hearing, Anthony recounts his life's tumultuous journey—from a neglected child in foster care to a young man lost in gang life, leading to the crime for which he's incarcerated. He speaks candidly about his remorse, the loss of his brother Jonathan to cancer, and his unwavering commitment to personal growth and helping others.

“I can't go to my mom and explain to her what it feels like to be a black man. She can understand, but she can never really know.” — Anthony Covert [1:18:30]

His testimony is a raw portrayal of struggle, resilience, and the quest for redemption, resonating deeply with the board and attendees.

Outcome of the Hearing

After two hours of heartfelt testimonies and personal accounts, Vic Chopra announces the board’s unanimous decision to recommend the commutation of Anthony Covert’s sentence, potentially reducing his incarceration by 20 years.

“On those grounds, I make the motion to recommend to the governor the commutation of Mr. Covert's sentence.” — Vic Chopra [1:45:00]

Ghost Stories from Washington State Penitentiary

Shifting gears, the episode transitions to a more supernatural segment featuring alarming ghost stories from WSP. Hosts Campbell and Rachel Check, along with guests Chris McGill and Josh Lancaster, share chilling encounters experienced within the penitentiary’s walls.

Jo’s Haunting Experiences

Jo recounts two eerie experiences:

1. Unit Six Encounter

   • While working the night shift, Jo hears unknown noises and witnesses keys jingling in an empty, secured area. Despite checking cameras and ensuring all doors were locked, the mystery remains unsolved.

   “Nobody was supposed to be in there, right? Nobody was. There are people on breaks that weren't on grounds at all.” — Jo [2:05:20]

2. Old School Uniform Specter

   • Multiple inmates report seeing a figure in an outdated uniform and nightstand near their cells, linked to historical events like the Lincoln Day Massacre and the death of Officer Herbert Briggs.

Exploring the Paranormal

The hosts discuss the significance of these apparitions, contemplating whether they represent unrested spirits seeking closure or reflecting the penitentiary’s violent history.

“I think it's like the people who didn't get to say their peace or didn't find any healing are just stuck back here.” — Josh Lancaster [2:25:50]

Closing Remarks and Reflections

Vic Chopra and Demar offer poignant reflections on Anthony’s journey and the symbolic nature of "climbing that rope," likening it to the human struggle for hope and redemption.

“You can either climb with this rope with hope, or you can hang yourself with it by giving up. I choose to keep climbing, I hope.” — Vic Chopra [2:50:30]

The episode concludes with a reminder of the continuous efforts to humanize and understand life within the penitentiary system, urging listeners to support movements challenging the prison-industrial complex.

Key Takeaways

• Redemption is Possible: Anthony Covert’s story showcases the transformative power of self-reflection, community support, and genuine remorse.

• Systemic Challenges: The lack of a parole system in Washington State underscores the significance of clemency hearings as critical junctures for inmate rehabilitation.

• Humanizing Incarceration: Personal testimonies aim to shift perceptions, highlighting inmates' capacities for change and contributions to society.

• Echoes of the Past: The ghost stories serve as metaphors for the unresolved traumas and historical violences embedded within the penal system.

Notable Quotes

• “Love comes from the most unexpected places.” — Anthony Covert [12:45]

• “He is one of those extraordinary kind of guys that he has the ability to really relate to people.” — Stephen Barker [40:10]

• “You can either climb with this rope with hope, or you can hang yourself with it by giving up. I choose to keep climbing, I hope.” — Vic Chopra [2:50:30]

Conclusion

"Climb That Rope" is a compelling episode that intertwines a powerful narrative of personal redemption with the haunting histories of WSP. Through Anthony Covert’s journey and the chilling ghost stories, Concrete Mama invites listeners to reflect on themes of justice, rehabilitation, and the enduring human spirit.

For more insights and episodes, subscribe to Concrete Mama: The Podcast on your preferred platform and join the movement to rethink everything you know about the prison-industrial complex.