Annabelle Winston, aka Painfree-B, received a Mayor’s pardon and was released from the Walesburg Correctional Facility late last night. Ms. Winston was sentenced to 23 years in jail in the Summer of 2022 for drug trafficking. She ended up serving just over 9 months. Releasing a high-profile convict might not bode well for Mayor Gondola’s campaign promise to crackdown on crime in Cinniapolis.

The Chorus reached out to Mayor Gondola’s office for comment and the Mayor responded himself. “Ms. Winston’s heart is big and in the right place. She was helping her community. Albeit, while breaking the law but with the intent to uplift her neighborhood and neighbors.” The Mayor also confirmed Ms. Winston would be back in prison if she violates the terms of her parole. But it was his follow up comment that should put the city on edge, “She is a drop in the bucket for Cinniapolis crime. So, we’re gonna clear the prison cells of minor infractions to make room for the real criminals of Cinniapolis.” Real criminals of Cinniapolis sounds like the name of a bad TV show, however, this is no joking matter for those in the Mayor’s crosshairs.

While campaigning, Mayor Gondola tip-toed around the city’s rising crime. But, now that he’s in office until November 2028, it looks like he may have his sights set on pursuing high-level criminals. “This is my home, our home. I want to ensure the longevity of Cinniapolis for everyday people. This will not be a safe haven for career criminals,” he said.

Meanwhile, Painfree-B celebrated her release with a private, after hours dinner at Fowler Chophouse. She provided this unsolicited statement to the Chorus, “Free at last, free at last, or some (expletive) like that. I’m back and better than ever!!!!!!!!!!”.