DETROIT – After 29 years in prison for a drug offense, Richard Wershe, also known as "White Boy" Rick, could be mere hours away from winning his freedom.
Local 4 Defender Kevin Dietz took a look at what's at stake for Wershe, and how he feels about his latest chance for a release.
Tuesday morning at 8:30 a.m., Wershe will have the most important interview of his life. He'll meet one-on-one with the head of the parole board, which could lead to his release.
READ: Full story of 'White Boy' Rick
Wershe has had plenty of ups and downs in his effort to be freed from prison. In his 29 years behind bars, this is his best chance.
But he still isn't completely convinced that Michigan's longest incarceration for a nonviolent juvenile offender is coming to an end.
"The best words to say is, 'Cautiously optimistic,'" Wershe said. "You hope it's over with after almost 30 years in here."
In 2003, Wershe had a full parole hearing and was denied. In 2007, he had a one-on-one meeting, but it led to no consideration. Nobody on the parole board has met with Wershe in 10 years.
"Richard Wershe Jr. is the only defendant who was convicted of the crime that he was convicted of as a juvenile that's still in prison," Wershe's attorney, Ralph Muscelli, said. "Everybody else has been released. Murderers have been released. Robbers have been released. Rapists have been released. He's been in jail for 29 years."
Muscelli said if Tuesday's meeting goes well, he believes it will lead to Wershe's release.
Monday on Local 4 News at 11, p.m., the Local 4 Defenders will be live from Oaks Correctional Facility in Manistee, where Wershe will speak on the eve of his important meeting.
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