What happens when a former law enforcement officer spends 20 years behind bars—and emerges determined to challenge the system that imprisoned him?
US Air Force Veteran and former Harris County sheriff’s deputy Kent McGowen joins The MisFitNation to share his account of the shooting, prosecution, and imprisonment that changed his family’s life forever.
Raised in Houston, Kent entered the USAF at 17 and married his high school sweetheart. His service continued in the Texas Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, followed by law enforcement careers with the Houston Police Department and Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Kent describes an August 25, 1992, shooting during the service of a felony warrant as self-defense. He alleges misconduct led to his conviction and approximately two decades in prison. Released on July 14, 2021, he now advocates for people he believes were wrongfully imprisoned, particularly law enforcement officers and Military Veterans.
In this conversation, we’ll explore:
• His journey from military service to law enforcement
• His account of the shooting and prosecution
• The impact of incarceration on marriage, fatherhood, and identity
• Rebuilding purpose after prison
• His advocacy for Veterans and former officers seeking justice
Kent’s allegations and characterization of his conviction represent his perspective.
What would you ask Kent about service, incarceration, or starting over? Leave your questions in the comments, subscribe, and join the conversation.
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