Chiteara Thomas

Chiteara Thomas is a resilient and inspiring advocate from Brockton, MA. A formerly incarcerated woman who once struggled with substance abuse, Chiteara's life transformed after her conviction was overturned in 2016. Originally sentenced to Life Without Parole in 2010, she received a reduced sentence of 15 to Life, giving her a chance at parole. During her 17 years at MCI-Framingham, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Boston University, completed 270 hours of substance abuse education, and achieved over 70 institutional program certificates. Paroled in November 2023, Chiteara now resides in Boston, MA, where she dedicates herself to community empowerment. She serves as the Violence Intervention and Prevention Coordinator for Teen Empowerment, mentoring formerly incarcerated individuals and at-risk youth. She also leads a Women’s Empowerment group at Suffolk House of Corrections. In May, Chiteara will graduate from Tufts University’s MyTERN program, earning 14 credits toward her Master’s Degree. A passionate advocate for prison reform, Chiteara raises awareness about substance abuse and the criminal justice system. She enjoys spending time with her 15-month-old granddaughter, supporting others on their journeys, and sharing her story to inspire change.