From Incarceration to Entrepreneurship: Carlos Rebollo Opens Freedom Braids in Shelton

Carlos Rebollo, who was sentenced to 45 years in prison at age 15, had his sentence commuted in 2022 after serving 24 years. With support from Enterprise House, he focused on rebuilding his life and contributing to his community.

Rebello is now the owner of Freedom Braids, a salon he recently expanded to a new location in Shelton, Connecticut. The opening was marked by a visit from Connecticut Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.

“I spent years imagining what my life could look like on the outside,” Rebollo said. “To stand here today, running a business and giving back to the community that welcomed me home—it means more than words can express.”