Broncos’ Demaryius Thomas Personally Thanks President Obama for Granting His Mother Clemency – blogged by @LoveRubyWoo

On Monday,  Super Bowl 50 winners, the Denver Broncos, got the opportunity to visit the White House as is tradition each year for any championship winning team. However, this trip was made even more memorable for Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas, as he was able to meet the man who gave his mother her freedom back. 

Late last year, Demaryius Thomas’ mother, Katina Smith, was granted clemency by President Obama after being locked up for 15 years on drug trafficking charges. It was part of an effort by President Obama to reduce prison sentences for individuals who committed non-violent drug crimes. Not only was Katina able to watch her son play football in person for the first time ever, but soon after, she was able to witness him win the Super Bowl. 

Yesterday, Demaryius finally got the chance to meet the man who changed his and his mother’s lives. “We talked for a quick second,” he said of his visit with President Obama. “I told him, ‘I thank you for what you’ve done for my family by giving my mother clemency.” Demaryius also noted that Obama remembered his family and that he had granted clemency to his mom.

While Demaryius is overjoyed to have his mom back by his side, he still misses his grandmother, Minnie Pearl Thomas, and would like to see her get out of prison one day as well. Minnie Thomas is currently serving a life sentence without parole for the same drug trafficking incident that Demaryius’ mother was arrested for. Demaryius has already sent in an application to request clemency for his grandmother and he made sure to mention it to the president during their conversation. If anyone can help him out, Obama can.