Op-Ed: Launching My Cannabis Brand in West Virginia After Prison Time for Medical Grow

Ryan Basore, a former federal prisoner who served time for legal medical cultivation in Michigan, has brought his journey full circle by launching Redemption Cannabis in Morgantown, West Virginia—the very town where he was once incarcerated. This isn't just about selling flower; Basore’s mission is centered on restorative justice. Through the Redemption Foundation, he directs 10% of licensing revenue toward supporting non-violent cannabis prisoners, funding thousands of expungements and providing essential commissary funds to those still behind bars.

This story hits home for the cannabis community because it highlights the massive gap between corporate profits and social justice. While many are making millions, others are still stuck in cells for the same plant. For regular tokers, supporting brands like this means your purchase goes beyond a great high—it directly helps right the wrongs of the past and supports the pioneers who paved the way. It’s a powerful reminder that true progress in the industry isn’t just about retail access, but about ensuring no one is left behind in the transition to legalization.