In an exclusive interview with Benzinga Cannabis, Angelos talked about the War on Drugs, its impact on families and younger generations, the Project Mission Green, and the Weldon Project.

“The investigation into my activities was based largely on my involvement in the so-called 'gangsta rap' music scene at the height of the 'hip-hop police' era when state and federal authorities were aggressively targeting rappers and rap moguls,” Angelos told Benzinga.

Hip-Hop, Race, And The War On Drugs

“I started out working with Snoop Dogg’s Dogg Pound group and 2Pac’s rap group the Outlawz' along with Bay Area legend Mac Dre. I eventually ended up in Snoop’s house making an album entitled 'We From the LBC,' which helped me land a record deal," Angelos shared.

Meanwhile, a Utah drug task force suspected Angelos’ rap connections involved criminal activities.

“I was also selling cannabis on the side to take care of my two young sons. Cannabis was also the culture. The government sent a confidential informant to purchase cannabis. I was no longer selling cannabis and gave him roughly $300 three times. I was arrested 6 months later,” Angelos continued.

“They found two legal firearms in a locked safe. Because I wasn’t willing to implicate rap artists or take an unjust plea deal, the government added 16 additional charges and I was facing 105 years of mandatory imprisonment.”

The Ripple Effects Of Long Sentences

Angelos highlighted the devastating impact of prolonged sentences. Particularly, how such sentences disrupt families, with children suffering the most. With separation come financial strains and emotional trauma.

“Long sentences disrupt family structures, leaving children without a parent. This separation often leads to financial issues, emotional distress, and negative impacts on children’s development and well-being,” Angelos explained.

Angelos also pointed out, that post-release, the noxious effects of lost productivity and employment barriers further entrench the cycle of poverty and disadvantage.

Advocating For Change: The Weldon Project And Project Mission Green

Despite some progress, including a general pardon for simple marijuana possession, Angelos emphasizes the need for law and sentencing reform, especially as marijuana legislation evolves.

In addition, Angelos established Project Mission Green, the first initiative focused on securing presidential clemency for those jailed for cannabis.

"Working with recent presidential administrations, including Biden's, we've pushed for comprehensive clemency. In 2021, I submitted a letter to President Biden, endorsed by Drake, Killer Mike, Deion Sanders and other officials, advocating for clemency for cannabis offenders,” Angelos noted.

“This was followed by discussions in 2022 with White House advisors and a symposium involving legal authorities to establish criteria for commuting sentences of federal cannabis offenders."

Voices From Behind Bars

He drew attention to cases like Jerry Haymon IV and Jimmy Cournoyer, both serving excessive sentences for non-violent cannabis offenses.

Their stories, according to Angelos, exemplify the disproportionate impact of the war on drugs on people of color and those from less privileged backgrounds.

Thus, he advocates for awareness and action to help those like Haymon and Cournoyer, who remain casualties of rigid and outdated drug policies.

Photo: Courtesy of The Weldon Project.