Board considers medical release for injured athlete Trell Cantrell in emotional meeting

In a heartfelt plea during the Louisiana Board of Pardons and Parole meeting on August 13, 2025, a former coach advocated for the medical release of a young man, Cantrell, who has been severely impacted by a tragic accident while playing intramural sports in prison. The coach, who described Cantrell as like a son, expressed deep concern for his well-being and the need for 24/7 care that the state is currently unable to provide.

The coach recounted the joy and camaraderie shared with Cantrell over a decade of coaching, highlighting the young man's athleticism and vibrant personality. He emphasized the emotional toll of witnessing Cantrell's decline and the burden it places on the state to care for someone in such a critical condition. The coach's testimony underscored the importance of family support and the potential for Cantrell to receive better care outside the correctional environment.

The board was urged to consider the compassionate aspects of Cantrell's situation, as the coach outlined the resources available through his extended family and friends, who are ready to assist in his transition. The plea resonated with the board, as the coach articulated a vision of healing and support that could be offered to Cantrell, contrasting sharply with the limitations of his current circumstances.

As the meeting progressed, the board members listened attentively, recognizing the emotional weight of the testimony. The coach's passionate appeal not only highlighted the individual case of Cantrell but also raised broader questions about the care and rehabilitation of individuals within the prison system. The outcome of this hearing could have significant implications for Cantrell's future and the ongoing discussions about medical releases in the state.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and hope, as the board members prepared to deliberate on the request, reflecting the community's desire for compassion and understanding in the face of tragedy.