Even those who are guilty of something are happy to celebrate Christmas at home with their loved ones. The state is also aware of this: In some countries, including Germany, there is a so-called Christmas amnesty. Shortly before the festival, many criminals are released. Some women in the United States, however, have another benefactor to thank for being able to be with their families this Christmas — rapper Meek Mill.

The 35-year-old ("Amen", "Going Bad") got her out of jail by posting bail for her. This was reported by the organization Reform Alliance, which works for the interests of prisoners, on Instagram. Meek Mill, whose real name is Robert Rihmeek Williams, founded the NGO three years ago together with fellow rapper Jay-Z.

The Reform Alliance spoke of a "heartwarming holiday gesture" by the musician. Altogether, Meek Mill paid bail for 20 women. They were all in a prison in Philadelphia and could not raise the required sum themselves. The women also received a shopping voucher so that they could buy food and gifts for Christmas.

Meek Mill has been involved in prison work for years. The reason for this lies in his own biography. The rapper was sentenced to probation in 2008 for drug possession, among other things, and ended up in prison for five months in 2017 for violating his probation terms.

That experience shaped him: "It was terrible for me to be so far away from my son during the holidays. So I understand what these women and their families are going through." It is not known how much Meek Mill paid to get the 20 women out of prison. But he speaks openly about his motivation: "No one should spend Christmas in prison just because they are unable to pay the bail. No child should be without their parents during this time if we can do something about it."

Sources: Reform Alliance on Instagram / Robert Rooks on Instagram / CBS