The international pop star, Kim Kardashian, decided to become a hero for one woman and her family.

Alice Marie Johnson was sentenced to life in prison without the chance of parole after she was convicted on federal drug and money laundering charges to which she had pleaded not guilty. Several co-defendants who testified against her were sentenced to probation or terms only up to 10 years.

After Johnson was behind bars for almost 22 years, Kim Kardashian West caught wind of her case and made it her mission to get Johnson out of prison. More than 200,000 people have signed an online petition supporting my release.

In June, President Trump officially granted Johnson clemency after meeting with Kardashian at the White House.

“I think it’s cool that Kim Kardashian was able to give someone’s life back and help them get out of prison. I also think it’s interesting how Trump was able to be contacted and convinced to agree or hear her side,” said Casey Cavaros (‘19).

According to Kardashian, she worked with Johnson’s attorneys to get letters in favor of Johnson’s release from senators and other politicians, but the White House canceled the meeting until they could prove they had more support.

“It’s scary how much control Kim Kardashian has on the world and what she’s capable of doing. I think it is good she was able to release her but at the same time scary,” said Sidney Corpus (‘19).

Later, when Kardashian went to visit the newly freed Johnson in her hometown, Memphis, Johnson spoke to West through his wife’s phone and thanked him for his efforts. Kardashian told Johnson that her case inspired real change.