Man Released After Lengthy Prison Sentence Delayed by Red Tape
Carlos Harris, who served a 20-year prison sentence, was released Tuesday night, marking the beginning of a hopeful new chapter in his life. However, his path to freedom was not without complications. Despite a Santa Clara County judge reducing his sentence by five years, Harris remained in jail for several more days due to bureaucratic delays.
Harris has consistently maintained his innocence since his conviction in 2005 for robbery and attempted murder, denying any involvement in the crime. The judge determined that Harris had served sufficient time under current sentencing standards and ordered his release. However, after receiving the news, Harris was met with disappointment as the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) needed additional time to process his release, keeping him in custody longer than expected. County officials confirmed this procedural delay.
The news of the delay was heartbreaking for Harris’ family, who had been advocating for his release for years. Despite the judge’s decision, Harris remained in jail due to the CDCR hold, which sparked protests from the NAACP and other supporters. Fortunately, on Tuesday afternoon, the hold was lifted, and the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office quickly processed his release.
KTVU was on hand to witness Harris’ release. Speaking to LaMonica Peters, Harris shared his feelings about the moment he was finally freed.
“I’m overjoyed. I’m really overjoyed. It’s God’s blessing I’m out,” Harris said. “It was discouraging because the judge ordered my release on Thursday, but the CDCR put a detainer on me. Thankfully, she fought hard for me, and that’s why I’m released today.”
Harris expressed gratitude towards the county jail staff, acknowledging they did their job efficiently despite the delays.
Reflecting on his time in prison, Harris admitted, “Twenty years in prison is not easy. It’s full of ups and downs and many hardships, but if you do the work they have in place for rehabilitation, you will get out. Don’t lose hope.”
Harris spoke of the emotional toll his incarceration had on his family, not only during the two decades behind bars but also in the final days when confusion and disappointment surrounded his delayed release.
“The wait was discouraging,” he said, adding that it was difficult to see his family experience disappointment after hearing about the last-minute hold.
Looking ahead, Harris is eager to start the next phase of his life. He plans to work with at-risk youth in the community and return to his previous job as a barber. His first immediate plan, though, was to enjoy a long-awaited steak dinner.
The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that they had stayed in close contact with Harris’ family and lawyers, notifying them promptly once his release was processed.
As Harris stepped out of the jail, he was greeted by a longtime friend. “Oh my god! What’s up, my boy?” Harris exclaimed with a bright smile as they embraced.
Despite the hardship, Harris expressed optimism for the future. “I’m going to enjoy my family, live life, and obey the law,” he said, ready to embrace life outside prison.
