A searing look at the consequences of mandatory minimum sentencing, The Sentence is the first film from Rudy Valdez, who tells the story of his sister Cindy Shank. A mother of three, Shank received a 15-year mandatory sentence for conspiracy charges related to her deceased ex-boyfriend’s crimes. Read More
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For more information about the topics discussed in this film, visit these sites.

Visit thesentencedoc.com for more information about the film, a fact sheet, and recent screenings.
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Discover more with bonus footage from the film.

Get a glimpse into Cindy's life with her husband and their three daughters before she was arrested.

Cindy's mom reflects on the difficulty of waiting for her daughter to return home from prison.

Cindy's young daughters remember — or try to remember — what it was like living with their mom.

The director and subject of The Sentence get candid about their hopes for the impact of the film.
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