ComingSoon is debuting an exclusive Life Without Parole trailer, previewing the upcoming documentary about George Martorano and his time in prison stemming from a non-violent drug offense.
“George Martorano, sentenced to life for non-violent marijuana charges, turns his life around in prison and inspires others before being released after 32 years,” says the synopsis.
What happens in the Life Without Parole trailer?
Life Without Parole tells the story of Martorano, who was sentenced to life without parole in 1984 on charges stemming mostly from marijuana offenses. Martorano was finally released from prison 32 years after his sentencing in October 2015. The documentary follows Martorano’s time in prison and how that changed his outlook on life. It also spotlights the stories of others.
Check out the exclusive Life Without Parole trailer below (watch other clips and trailers):
In 1984, Martorano pled guilty to 19 counts of drug possession and distribution on the advice of his attorney. He was subsequently sentenced to life in prison despite the prosecution recommending 40 to 54 months instead. Martorano eventually became the longest-serving first-time non-violent offender up until his release over 30 years later after over 35 appeals and finally getting a compassionate release.
Martorano’s father, Raymond, was a noted mobster in the Philadelphia Crime Family. As such, it was alleged that the lengthy sentence was an attempt to pressure Martorano into giving details about his father’s illegal business. Martorano has always denied knowing anything about his father’s mob dealings, though.
Life Without Parole is directed by Jill Frechie and produced by Frechie and John Ricciutti. The Breaking Glass Pictures documentary is set to be released digitally on November 5, 2024. It was produced by Main Line Television and has a runtime of 60 minutes.
