Meet The Man Awaiting Presidential Pardon for Non-Violent Cannabis Charges

Summary

Rubis was arrested by the DEA in 1998 when he was 29 years old, charged with conspiracy to distribute cannabis despite no drugs, money, or weapons being found in his possession. Since his incarceration, he has earned three college degrees and completed over 30 rehabilitation programs, demonstrating a commitment to personal growth and reform. His earliest possible release date is in 2031, when he will be 63 years old. Rubis’s case highlights ongoing discussions about the need for reform in cannabis-related sentencing and the broader implications for individuals who have been incarcerated for non-violent offenses. Advocates argue that granting him a pardon would not only serve justice but also reflect a commitment to meaningful reform within the criminal justice system.