In 2008, a court clerk’s error led to a Colorado man’s release from prison……..90 years too soon. Rena Lima-Marin was sentenced to 98 years in prison for a robbery spree in 2000. The judge in the case sentenced Lima-Marin to serve consecutive sentences on eight convictions, but a court clerk mistakenly wrote in his file that the sentences were to run concurrently. So, in 2008, Lima-Marin was released from prison after serving just eight years. He quickly set about rebuilding his life, first starting by selling coupon books door-to-door, and then becoming skilled at cutting and installing windows. He had been hired as a window glazier with the Harmon Company and was making a good living. He reconnected with his former girlfriend, Jasmine, and they were married in 2013. The wedding was a joint celebration of his completion of five years of parole. Lima-Marin was active in his church and also helped to coach a soccer team. He was not only helping to raise Jasmine’s 7-year-old son Justus, but the couple then adopted a 4-year-old boy named Josiah. In 2014, police came calling after the mistake in court documents was discovered. Lima-Marin was swiftly sent back to prison to complete his sentence. In a rare move, Lima-Marin filed his own appeal, asking that the case be dismissed because the court made the mistake. In 2024, Lima-Marin’s case made national news and put the spotlight on the criminal justice system. Chief Justice Carlos Samour, Jr. ordered Lima-Marin's immediate release, stating that it would be "draconian" to keep him in jail. He also admonished the courts for their indifference and for not noticing their error for six years. He stated that Lima-Marin had no idea he was released by accident and that he was not trying to hide because he used his legal name for employment, voting, and to obtain a driver's license. "He has been an asset to society and an outstanding citizen. He is a poster boy for rehabilitation,” said Samour.
