Roosevelt Carr
Born in Fort Benning, Georgia on June 21, 1948, Roosevelt Carr moved to Chicago after his mother’s passing when he was just fourteen years old. After graduating from Crane High School on the city’s West Side, he enlisted in the Air Force for a four-year term in Vietnam. There, he served as a medical technician, a role which involved conducting psychiatric evaluations of soldiers; his friendly and open demeanor helped support other service men in speaking frankly about their stress and anger.
When Roosevelt—or “Rosey,” as his loved ones affectionately call him—was 38 years old, he received a natural life sentence. Despite being sentenced to die in prison, Roosevelt dedicated his time toward participating in all available programming, through which he connected with other veterans, completed substance abuse counseling, and strengthened his relationship to his faith.
While incarcerated, Roosevelt’s health severely declined, and he struggled with impaired vision, hearing, and mobility. Due to his health conditions, IPP filed a Joe Coleman Medical Release petition on his behalf and represented him in the accompanying hearing.
In September 2023, after Roosevelt had served 38 years in prison, IPP won his medical release. At 76 years old, he now lives in a nursing home and receives the vital support he needs for elder care. Since his release, he’s enjoyed reconnecting with loved ones, making new friends, and going to church with local volunteers. Mr. Carr is proud to share his story with others and looks forward to bringing hope to other incarcerated people, especially those with life sentences.
