The order came after Pickens was resentenced on March 30, 2026, in a criminal case that began in 2023. Judge Stephen V. Wilson determined that Pickens had fully served the sentence imposed at the resentencing hearing and should be released immediately from federal custody.
Wilson emphasized the urgency of the release order, directing the Bureau of Prisons to free Pickens "forthwith and immediately." The judge warned that any delay in compliance could result in sanctions or contempt findings against prison officials, underscoring the court's expectation of prompt action.
The case has been pending since 2023, when Pickens was initially charged. The defendant underwent a resentencing hearing on March 30, 2026, which apparently resulted in a reduced sentence that Wilson found had already been served through time in custody.
Wilson scheduled a same-day status conference for 11:00 a.m. in Courtroom 10A, ordering a Bureau of Prisons representative with release authority to appear and report on compliance. The immediate scheduling suggests the court's concern about potential delays in executing the release order.