The power of Prop 57 second chances
A conversation with Marta Barreto about accomplishing great things post-release.
Marta Barreto was sentenced to 24 and a half years in California, at the age of 42. Due to the passing and implementation of Proposition 57, the Public Safety and Rehabilitation Act of 2016, Barreto was resentenced to time served after two years. She walked out of the Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in 2019. Her story attracted the attention of documentary makers, and a film about her journey called “From Darkness to Orbit” is set for release in 2025.
This conversation about second chances and the desire for transformation has been edited for length and clarity.
Q: What was your original sentence and how did you get released early?
A: My original sentence was a determinate term of 24 and a half years. Proposition 57 reduced my sentence by 22 and a half years. This chance to start over played a vital role in the [sense] that I have liberties I couldn’t see before, due to the adverse experiences I endured as a child. I had been sexually abused and sex trafficked as an adolescent, which led to substance abuse as a means to cope into my adulthood.
Q: How did your prison experience impact your drive post-release?
A: My prison experience impacted my drive to change and seek healing in a huge way. I enrolled in self-help groups such as [the faith-based restorative justice program] Bridges to Life and LifeScripting [a therapy-centered program designed to facilitate personal growth]. They pushed me to look into my indiscretions and to take accountability. I had to really understand that in order to become physically, mentally and emotionally whole— as well as sober—, I needed to let go of past hurts, shame, resentments and anger. I had to take ownership of my part in the actions I took to get to prison. Bridges to Life and LifeScripting saved me in ways I cannot fully explain.
Q: What are some achievements you have obtained since being released?
A: I acquired two degrees, my Bachelor’s in Science and Technical Studies and my Master’s in Business Administration from California State University San Bernardino. I got hired as a propulsion technician building rocket engines for Virgin Orbit, and worked there until they closed. I now work as a process engineer technician at Phillips-Medisize. I was awarded the Cal State San Bernardino Jack H. Brown College of Business social justice scholarship because of my desire to speak about the value of second chances. I also have a documentary film about me called “From Darkness to Orbit” that will be completed this year. In January, the judge who originally sentenced me granted me expungement of my criminal record. She said she had never seen anyone who has been released accomplish so much in five years. This was a full circle moment for me that I will never forget. And in April, San Bernardino County also just granted the dismissal of my remaining cases.
Q: What is it about your life today that calls you to extend your story to those still system-impacted?
A: Really, I just want to plant seeds of hope, courage and empowerment. I mentor juveniles facing life sentences in Orange County, CA, and have been invited to do the same in Riverside County as well. In 2024, I was declared the Mentor of the Year in Orange County by the Hub for Integration, Reentry & Employment (H.I.R.E.) for my work in dealing with both juveniles and adult males. The truth that change and transformation are possible and worth it is why I will continue to do so.
Q: Are there any parting words you’d like to give the women at CCWF?
A: Do whatever it takes to sift through your past, your darkness, your demise, to unravel and let go of what has held you captive for so long, what led you down the path of criminal activity. Go to groups and be truthful and transparent. Fight for your life, your children’s lives, no matter how hard or how much. Look in the mirror and take accountability for your part.
