Podcast Summary: Criminal – "Extraordinary and Compelling Reasons"
Introduction "Criminal," a standout podcast by Vox Media's Podcast Network and celebrated as a Best Podcast of 2023 by the New York Times, delves into the intricate narratives of individuals entangled within the criminal justice system. Hosted by Phoebe Judge, the episode titled "Extraordinary and Compelling Reasons" centers around Gary Settle, a long-term inmate at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Butner in North Carolina. This detailed summary captures the essence of Gary's story, the systemic challenges within the prison healthcare system, and his relentless efforts to aid fellow inmates in securing compassionate release.
Gary Settle’s Current Situation Gary Settle has been incarcerated since 1993 and currently resides at FMC Butner, a facility designated for inmates with significant health issues. Phoebe Judge introduces Gary amidst the backdrop of Butner’s reputation, mentioning notable inmates like Bernie Madoff and Ted Kaczynski who have also been treated there.
Gary Settle (01:26): “My name is Gary Settle. You want my current situation?”
At Butner, Gary's daily routine involves medication management, participating in a chronic illness class where he also serves as a mentor, and limited outdoor time due to his chemotherapy treatments.
Gary Settle (01:58): “All right. Well, it's just like any prison. We're confined to ourselves for part overnight and for different parts of the day... I have a class at 12:30 living with chronic illness that I'm gonna, I'm a mentor in, in that class too.”
Life at Butner: Healthcare and Daily Challenges Butner Federal Correctional Complex is one of seven federal prisons equipped to handle inmates with serious medical conditions. Gary shares his experiences with the facility's medical services, highlighting both the support and the bureaucratic challenges.
Gary Settle (04:00): “About like you'd expect after six years of treatment... when you first came here, I had never really been around sick people.”
He contrasts his initial expectations with the reality of the medical care, noting limitations in dietary options and the rigidity of prison systems in addressing individual health needs.
Gary Settle (06:37): “The options that we can buy on the commissary here... it's predominantly sugar items. We can't buy any fresh produce... I just always thought that a place like this that was designed for medical cases, for the most part, that you should have healthy alternatives here.”
The First Step Act and Compassionate Release In 2018, Gary was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which led to his transfer to Butner. The episode explores the introduction of the First Step Act in 2018, a significant legislative change aimed at reforming sentencing and enhancing compassionate release protocols.
Anna Altman, a journalist specializing in compassionate release, provides context on the challenges inmates face in accessing compassionate release before and after the First Step Act.
Anna Altman (09:56): “People who have been in prison for a long time... don't necessarily trust the system... there isn't a feeling that they are able to advocate for themselves or ask for the medication or the comfort measures that might make them more comfortable in their final days.”
The First Step Act streamlined the compassionate release process, allowing inmates to petition judges directly if their requests were denied or ignored. This legislative change significantly impacted inmates like Gary, who saw potential in helping others navigate the bureaucratic maze to secure early release based on health crises.
Gary’s Criminal Background and Sentencing The narrative shifts to Gary's past, detailing his criminal activities that led to his long-term incarceration. In 1992, Gary was convicted of multiple bank robberies and firearm charges, resulting in a staggering 177-year sentence.
Gary Settle (27:16): “Most of it just got spent in a partying lifestyle. Most of it was spent on frivolous stuff.”
His reflections on his past reveal a sense of remorse and acknowledgment of the consequences his actions had on his life and others.
Efforts to Help Fellow Inmates Driven by his experiences and the legal reforms, Gary dedicated himself to assisting fellow inmates in applying for compassionate release. He became adept at handling the paperwork and liaising with lawyers to advocate for those suffering from severe illnesses.
Gary Settle (17:42): “I just help with some of the bureaucratic stuff and bring attention to certain cases. And when you look at them on paper, once you understand what those words mean, these guys are really bad shape.”
One poignant case involved Bobby Smith, a severely ill inmate whose compassionate release was eventually granted, allowing him a brief respite outside prison before his passing.
Anna Altman (13:59): “The lawyer was able to get that information in front of a judge so that the Judge could grant Mr. Smith release.”
Gary’s efforts have reportedly aided over 40 inmates in their quests for compassionate release, showcasing his commitment to leveraging systemic changes for the betterment of his peers.
Personal Struggles and Continued Advocacy Despite his significant contributions, Gary faces ongoing personal challenges, including a return of his cancer and being denied compassionate release for himself. His applications highlighted his rehabilitation and the support he provided to others, yet the court deemed him not terminal enough to qualify.
Gary Settle (35:34): “Cancer survivor. My father died of cancer early on in my incarceration... You'll be surprised how many people probably wouldn't be. How many guys in prison you meet are mama's boys like me.”
His relationship with his family, particularly his mother's unwavering support, adds depth to his character, illustrating the personal toll of prolonged incarceration.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Prospects Undeterred by personal setbacks, Gary continues to advocate for change within the prison system. His latest efforts involve petitioning for executive clemency, building upon his previous attempts at compassionate release.
Gary Settle (38:44): “They're submitting a petition for executive clemency right now. That's what's. And it's going to have attached the prior motions and all the medical reports and everything.”
As of the latest update in September 2024, Gary remains optimistic yet realistic about his prospects, continuing to mentor and support fellow inmates while navigating his health challenges.
Conclusion "Extraordinary and Compelling Reasons" paints a vivid picture of the intersection between personal redemption and systemic reform within the American prison system. Through Gary Settle’s journey, the episode underscores the profound impact of legislative changes like the First Step Act and the human stories behind compassionate release. Gary’s unwavering dedication to helping others, despite his own dire circumstances, offers a compelling narrative of empathy, resilience, and the enduring quest for justice.
Notable Quotes:
- Gary Settle (03:12): “Either to go home or die. I mean, that's because I don't think I'll leave here again.”
- Anna Altman (09:56): “People... don't necessarily trust the system... they don't know if they're getting full information.”
- Gary Settle (17:42): “I just help with some of the bureaucratic stuff and bring attention to certain cases.”
- Gary Settle (35:34): “Cancer survivor... How many guys in prison you meet are mama's boys like me.”
This episode not only sheds light on the personal narrative of an inmate but also invites listeners to reflect on broader issues of justice, humanity, and the potential for systemic change within the penal system.