An Alabama man has been released from prison after serving 36 years in jail for stealing $50 from a bakery.
Alvin Kennard had originally been sentenced to life in prison in 1983 under Alabama's strict three strikes law.
It had been introduced in the 1970s to deter repeat offenders.
Kennard already had burglary and larceny convictions.
This is Alvin Kennard. His hearing is about to begin. pic.twitter.com/9wC61rqw0C
— Ivana Hrynkiw Shatara (@IvanaSuzette) August 28, 2019
Earlier this week, Circuit Judge David Carpenter re-sentenced Kennard to time served and allowed him to walk free.
Kennard's family celebrated in court and told local media that they had been praying for his release.
Kennard, who apologised for his crimes, said he now wanted to get on with the rest of his life.
He hopes to return to his old job as a carpenter.
