CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Gastonia man was among 11 Americans who had their non-violent drug sentences commuted by President Joe Biden, the White House announced this week.
James Michael Barber was sentenced to 15 years and eight months in prison in February 2015 for conspiracy to distribute and possession of cocaine. Barber, who was originally expected to be released from prison in 2030, will be released on Feb. 20, 2024. He will be required to undergo five years of supervised release with all of the conditions of his sentencing.
"President Joseph R. Biden Jr. is using his authority under the Constitution to uphold the values of redemption and rehabilitation by commuting the sentences of 11 fellow Americans who are serving unduly long sentences for non-violent drug offenses," the White House said in a statement.
Among the others who had their sentences commuted were four men serving life sentences.
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