The Hidden Third From Prison Cell to Rocket Scientist
Mar 25, 2026
Marta Barreto, survivor turned propulsion technician and prison speaker, rebuilt her life after abuse, addiction, and incarceration. She talks about trauma’s grip, the barriers that trap victims, and the long work of rebuilding identity and career. Her journey touches on therapy, education, aerospace work, and advocating for rehabilitation and second chances.
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Prop 57 Cut Years From Her Sentence
- Prosecutors sought 24.5 years, but Prop 57 and legal changes removed most of Marta's sentence, reducing it to two years; she was released August 19, 2019.
- This legal shift enabled the next chapter: therapy, reconciliation, and education.
Pursue Long Term Therapy With A Committed Clinician
- Seek deep therapy with a committed clinician to process shame, guilt, and trauma rather than surface-level programs.
- Marta spent three years with a therapist (Betsy) who fought for her and taught her to release anger and forgive.
Forgiveness Frees From Internal Prison
- Guilt and shame can imprison someone more effectively than physical confinement; releasing them enabled Marta to live freely long before legal freedom.
- She describes forgiving her mother and traffickers as key steps toward regaining life and identity.