A sex trafficking victim who was handed a life sentence for killing her alleged abuser has been released from prison after a high-profile campaign.
Kim Kardashian and Rihanna were just two of the many celebrities involved in calling for Cyntoia Brown to be freed - and their wish has now been granted. The 31-year-old was forced into prostitution as a child by a man known as 'cut-throat', who verbally, physically and sexually abused her, it is claimed. Brown said she fatally shot Johnny Allen in 2004, when she was 16, because she had been drugged and raped and feared he would kill her.
Kim Kardashian and Rihanna were just two of the many celebrities involved in calling for Cyntoia Brown to be freed - and their wish has now been granted. The 31-year-old was forced into prostitution as a child by a man known as 'cut-throat', who verbally, physically and sexually abused her, it is claimed. Brown said she fatally shot Johnny Allen in 2004, when she was 16, because she had been drugged and raped and feared he would kill her.
After spending 15 years in prison, Brown was released on Wednesday morning after being granted clemency by former Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam in January. She will now spend 10 years on parole on the conditions that she follows the law, keeps a job and takes part in counselling sessions. Brown has now pledged to help other female abuse victims in a statement issued since her release. One of Brown's most famous supporters, singer Rihanna, previously wrote on Instagram: "Imagine at the age of 16 being sex-trafficked by a pimp named 'cut-throat.' After days of being repeatedly drugged and raped by different men, you were purchased by a 43-year-old child predator who took you to his home to rape you.
"You end up finding enough courage to fight back and shoot and kill him. You're arrested, as a result, tried and convicted as an adult and sentenced to life in prison. This is the story of Cyntoia Brown. She will be eligible for parole when she is 69-years-old."Reality star Kim Kardashian also took up her case, tweeting: "The system has failed. It's heartbreaking to see young girl sex trafficked then when she has the courage to fight back, is jailed for life."Supermodel Cara Delevigne has also backed Brown on social media.
Prosecutors claimed Brown was trying to commit robbery as she had taken Mr Allen's wallet and gun after she shot him. She was jailed for 51 years for first-degree murder, aggravated robbery and prostitution. She said she went home with estate agent Mr Allen, had dinner with him and then he showed her his gun collection. After she had climbed into bed with him, Brown claimed Mr Allen reached to the side of the bed and she shot him over fears that he was picking up a gun. A documentary about her case has been filmed in the US and since it was shown a raft of celebrities have called for her to be released. Since she has been in prison, Brown has earned her Associates Degree and is working towards her Bachelor's degree.