Please check out this brief three minute news video* and meet me back here…

A dear friend recently sent this clip to me. It’s heartbreaking to watch at first as it depicts the dire challenges many exonerees face after being released from prison. It’s a story about an innocent man’s release from prison after serving twenty-five years for a crime he did not commit. Jonathan Fleming survived the rigors of prison life. He was rewarded with exoneration. But then this rare victory was overshadowed by worries of how to survive on the outside in a much different world. If you’ve ever heard the term “three hot’s and a cot” in reference to the basic needs met while in prison, unfortunately those necessities topped the list of essentials that Fleming lacked. Instilled in him was overwhelming anxiety about what his future would look like.

Then the story takes a turn and describes the selfless determination of another man, Jeffrey Deskovic who walked in similar shoes but manages just fine because of money he won in a lawsuit. Due to firsthand experience, he formed a foundation called, The Jeffrey Deskovic Foundation for Justice, to help those like himself and Fleming in desperate need of a new start. This foundation was borne out of a need to feel a sense of pride through accomplishment. And it would become a blessing to Fleming.

I also wanted to point out another aspect of this story that’s not so obvious. Something else caught my attention as I watched this clip a second time. I noticed a subtle but definite reaction in the body language of the law enforcement officer in the background who was watching this victory unfold for Fleming. There was an unmistakable acknowledgment of the pain and overflowing joy exhibited by Fleming a few feet in front of him. I was struck by the raw realism displayed by this officer as he did his best to contain his own emotions.

These were two people on opposite sides of the legal spectrum silently and unknowingly connecting. It’s a powerful image that is rarely seen.

In my life’s journey I’ve seen outward displays of kindness but seldom in this context. This is indeed encouraging even though I know we have a long way to go before a widespread understanding and acceptance between law enforcement and the wrongfully convicted occurs. Nonetheless, it appears we are there, at least in a small sort of way…

*Unfortunately, the video I described above is no longer available. However, the reporter who covered the story the day of Fleming’s release has posted this clip on her website. The officer I described appears only briefly about halfway through, but not long enough to get a sense of the emotion he’s feeling.  🙁