Celeste Monette Blair,

Celeste Monette Blair is a woman from Jacksonville, Florida, who is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Her case raises questions about the fairness of her sentence and the evolving standards of our justice system.

Here are key reasons why we believe she should be granted clemency and released from prison:

  1. Long Period of Law-Abiding Behavior: Celeste went 23 years without committing any felonies, demonstrating significant personal growth and change.

  2. Severity of Sentence: Celeste argues that her 30-year sentence is too harsh by today's legal standards. She points out that under current guidelines, she might qualify for the Safety Valve, which could have led to a lighter sentence for her non-violent role in the drug case.

  3. Exemplary Conduct in Prison: While in prison, Celeste has shown exemplary behavior. She has participated in rehabilitation programs like the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP), which highlights her commitment to personal growth and accountability.

  4. Advocacy and Reform Efforts: Celeste has been active in advocating against injustices within the prison system, showing her resilience and commitment to reform.

  5. Positive Contributions in Prison: She has engaged in various educational and community-building programs, such as the Appalachian Book Project and the INSIDE OUT PROGRAM. She also helped start the BOP Think Tank, VOICES UNITED, demonstrating her dedication to education, self-improvement, and community service.

  6. Future Plans: Celeste has outlined positive plans for her life after release, including training ex-offenders in environmentally friendly practices, community outreach projects, and opportunities in agriculture and home renovation. Her goals aim to benefit society and contribute to positive change.

Celeste's case challenges us to consider the principles of justice, fairness, and the potential for rehabilitation and redemption. She believes that she has transformed during her time in prison and is ready to make positive contributions to society if given the chance.

Clemency for Celeste Monette Blair

30 YEARS FOR CONSPIRACY

Celeste Monette Blair's case presents several compelling reasons for clemency and early release:

  1. Non-Violent Offense: Celeste's offense, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, is non-violent in nature. She acknowledges her involvement in drug-related activities for a relatively short period and has not been convicted of a felony in over two decades prior to this incident.

  2. Harsh Sentencing: A 30-year sentence for a non-violent offense, especially considering her role as a middleman and the absence of a victim actively seeking punishment, appears disproportionately harsh. Such a long sentence may not align with the principles of justice, rehabilitation, and proportionality.

  3. Rehabilitation and Exemplary Prison Conduct: Celeste's exemplary conduct in prison, especially her participation in programs like RDAP (Residential Drug Abuse Program), highlights her commitment to rehabilitation. She has used her time in prison to develop coping skills and gain a better understanding of herself.

  4. Advocacy and Exposure of Prison Issues: Celeste took a stand against the injustices within the prison system, exposing the filth and advocating for change. Her actions, including a class-action civil suit, demonstrate a commitment to justice beyond her individual circumstances.

  5. Positive Post-Release Plans: Celeste has a well-thought-out post-release plan that focuses on contributing positively to society. Her vision of training ex-offenders in environmentally friendly practices and community outreach projects reflects a commitment to giving back and being a constructive member of society.

  6. Support System: Celeste has a support system that includes her family, such as her mother Debbi Pennebaker and father James Pennebaker, as well as supporters like the CAN-DO Foundation. This network can contribute to her successful reintegration into society.

  7. No Ongoing Threat to Society: Celeste asserts that she is not a threat to society. Given her age, demonstrated rehabilitation efforts, and commitment to a positive post-release plan, there is a strong argument that she can reintegrate into society without posing a risk.

Considering these factors, there appears to be a reasonable case for clemency for Celeste Monette Blair, allowing her to rejoin her family, contribute to society, and continue her path of rehabilitation. The potential economic, social, and environmental benefits of her proposed post-release activities further support the argument for clemency.


Celeste Monette Blair's case for clemency is strengthened by both her accomplishments during her time in prison and the legal landscape around sentencing for similar offenses. Her dedication to personal transformation and commitment to positively impacting her community is evident through her extensive list of achievements:

  1. Legal Considerations: Celeste highlights the discrepancy between her current sentence and the potential sentence she might receive under current guidelines. Given the changes in sentencing laws, including the eligibility for the Safety Valve, her case raises questions about the fairness and proportionality of her 30-year sentence.

  2. Legal References: Celeste cites legal references such as Concepcion No 20-1650 (June 27, 2022), Hayes 948 F. Supp 2nd 1009,1025 (N.D. Iowa 2013), Neal 516 US. 284, 290, 116 S Ct. 763, 133 L. Ed., and others, signaling her understanding of relevant legal developments that may impact her case.

  3. Demonstrated Remorse and Transformation: Celeste emphasizes that true remorse is demonstrated through change. Her spotless disciplinary record and consistent commitment to doing what is right showcase her dedication to personal transformation and growth.

  4. Active Engagement in Programs: Celeste actively participates in various programs, including the Appalachian Book Project, INSIDE OUT PROGRAM (focusing on victim impact, sociology, victimology, criminology), and being a founding member of the BOP Think Tank, VOICES UNITED. Her involvement demonstrates a commitment to education, self-improvement, and contributing positively to the prison community.

  5. RDAP Graduate and Peace Corps Member: Completing the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) has been transformative for Celeste, equipping her with coping skills, boundaries, and cognitive health. Her subsequent involvement in the Peace Corps, acting as a mentor in the community for a year, reflects her commitment to making a positive impact.

  6. Recreation and Continuing Education: Celeste's participation in recreation courses like yoga, total body fitness, and weight management, as well as her involvement in adult continuing education classes on conflict resolution, poetry, creative writing, and leadership, demonstrate her commitment to personal development.

  7. Contributions to Women's Reform: Celeste's involvement in Women's Reform2Success, where she developed curriculum for "DISCOVER YOUR TRUE SELF" and directed "THE ELDERLY COMPANION COMMUNITY SERVICE," highlights her proactive approach to rehabilitation and community service.

  8. Upcoming Projects: Celeste is actively involved in planning and implementing upcoming programs such as "Carpe Diem," focusing on community-building through service projects. This showcases her commitment to contributing positively to society post-release.

  9. Legal Cases Demonstrating Extraordinary Rehabilitation: Citing legal cases like Hope-2020 90cR-06108-KMW-2WL 2477523 and Millan-91-CR-685 (LAP) 2020 WL 1674058, Celeste provides examples of individuals who have received relief based on extraordinary rehabilitation, aligning her case with legal precedents.

Celeste's comprehensive list of accomplishments, dedication to education and community service, and awareness of legal developments collectively form a strong case for clemency. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of rehabilitation and the potential for positive contributions to society upon release.