Hennepin County District Judge Mark Kappelhoff weighed the contradictions of Myon Burrell’s case and life as the courtroom, packed with Burrell’s supporters, looked on.

His chin resting in his hand, Kappelhoff called the situation in front of him “extraordinary.”

Burrell, who had a life sentence for murder commuted in 2020 after spending nearly two decades in prison, was again in the system, having been convicted three months ago of illegal possession of a firearm and fifth-degree drug possession. And Kappelhoff had already handed down a five-year sentence.

Now, the judge was considering a request by Burrell’s attorney, Paul Applebaum, to release him from custody while the case is appealed. Kappelhoff heard emotional statements from community leaders about why Burrell should be allowed to stay out of prison, and he spoke plainly about what he saw as a pattern of criminal behavior by Burrell.