Legal review
Supporting counsel reviewing the record and the avenues available under Indonesian law.
Active case
Jarred Shaw
Jakarta, Indonesia
An American professional athlete seeking humanitarian relief in a cannabis-related case.
Active caseHumanitarian advocacy
Jarred Shaw is a U.S. citizen and professional basketball player who was detained in Indonesia in a cannabis-related case. Forgotten Prisoner is supporting his family and legal team as they pursue humanitarian relief and a proportionate resolution, with particular concern for his health while incarcerated.
Case overview
A career interrupted, a life on the line
Jarred Shaw is an American professional basketball player who built his career overseas, playing in leagues across Asia before his arrest in Indonesia in a cannabis-related case.
Indonesia enforces some of the strictest drug laws in the world, and cases involving small quantities of cannabis can carry extraordinarily severe consequences. The case has drawn sustained international press attention, in part because of reported concerns about his health in custody.
Forgotten Prisoner is working alongside his family and legal representatives to press for humanitarian relief, adequate medical care, and a resolution proportionate to the conduct alleged.
Timeline
Key milestones
- 2025
Detained in Jakarta
Jarred was taken into custody in Indonesia in connection with a cannabis-related allegation.
- 2025–2026
International attention
The case is covered by U.S. and international outlets, raising questions about proportionality and his medical condition.
- Ongoing
Advocacy and humanitarian appeals
Family, legal counsel, and advocates continue to pursue humanitarian relief and appropriate medical care.
Why this case matters
A small quantity of cannabis should never put a life at risk.
Jarred's case sits at the intersection of shifting cannabis laws and some of the harshest drug penalties in the world. It shows how sharply consequences can change from one border to the next, and why humanitarian standards — proportionate punishment, adequate medical care, consular access — matter most where penalties are most severe.
Current advocacy
What we’re working toward
Humanitarian advocacy
Pressing for adequate medical care and humane conditions while he remains in custody.
Diplomatic outreach
Engaging with officials and stakeholders who can advance consular and humanitarian channels.
Public awareness
Keeping the case visible so it is not quietly resolved out of public view.
In the news
Media coverage
Andscape
Professional hooper Jarred Shaw made a mistake in Indonesia. He’s paying with his freedom.
Forbes
U.S. basketball player with Crohn’s fears dying in Indonesian prison
USA Today
Ex-college basketball player seeks release from Indonesian prison amid health crisis
Complex
Former NCAA player avoids death penalty for cannabis gummies in Indonesia
How you can help
