Authors of Program tell WHY

Testimony One by program co-author Andrae Bridges, Imprisoned at age 16, now 33.

Why I Think This Program (Redemptive Re-Entry) Is Needed •
I think the Redemptive Re-Entry Program or something similar is needed because juvenile offenders who were waived into adult court, convicted of violent crimes, given lengthy sentences and have served more than thirteen (13) years deserve a second chance at the life they never knew. Or had for that matter. I have found that juveniles who don't get waived into adult court ultimately receive a second chance at life. Even after having been convicted of crimes just as violent as those who get waived. It is clearly understood that we're dealing with two different jurisdictions here; juvenile and adult. However, we're dealing with the same kind of individuals; JUVENILES.

"The Court explained that juveniles were less culpable because inexperience, less education, and less intelligence make [a juvenile] less able to evaluate the consequences of his or her conduct while at the same time he or she is much more apt to be motivated by mere emotion or peer pressure than as an adult. The reasons why juveniles are not trusted with privileges and responsibilities of an adult also explain why their irresponsible conduct is not as morally reprehensible as that of an adult." (2007 Wis. L. Rev. 729)

With that being said know that I attempt to make no excuses for my actions. And I'd be the first to admit that said actions were deserving of punishment yet I can't help questioning the degree to which such was disseminated. In 1992 (when I was convicted), had I not been waived as an adult I would have most likely been released around the age of twenty-five (25) or so, depending on certain factors. I most certainly wouldn't still be in the system, as I am now. And that's due solely to the fact that I was waived as adult and thereby sentenced as such. But my point is this: with the Redemptive Re-Entry Program or something similar, prisoners such as myself will be given a shot at freedom just like those who remained in the juvenile system.' Although having served more prison time. Hence, under the juvenile system I probably would have served no more than ten (10) years. Whereas I have nearly double that (17) in the adult system.

In closing, I think the Redemptive Re-Entry Program or something similar is needed because it would apply to a unique group of individuals who have essentially been forgotten. In addition to the ten reasons why I feel and/or think I should be released from prison. But as I was saying, over the years there have been tons of research done on the brain development of juveniles as well as juvenile justice reform. But all of those efforts seem geared toward the juveniles that are entering the system today. Don't get me wrong, I believe that's wonderful and I encourage more efforts in that regard but I'd also like to see something put in effect that would allow prisoners such as myself to receive a special parole grant or at least be given the opportunity to work towards obtaining one or something as such.
Andrae L. Bridges #248420

Testimeny Two by program co- author Roy Rogers
R. Rogers
Why I Think This Program (Redemptive Re-Entry) Is Needed
I believe a program like the Redemptive Re-Entry program is needed because it acknowledges the redemptive value in teens who committed horrible crimes. This program affirms the possibility of positive change in the lives of these offenders and their ability to be productive members in society. This program is needed because it acknowledges that teens who committed serious offenses and sentenced as adults to lengthy prison terms are not throw aways. I believe this program is needed in the Wisconsin Prison System because in order for restorative justice to be complete it requires the restoration also of this class of inmates.

The Redemptive Re-Entry Program is needed because it is in the spirit of the Second Chance Act and the current re-entry initiatives because those eligible for the redemptive re-entry program will be offenders who have taken active responsibility for their actions. They've done this by doing their part to repair harm and restore relationships thru their program involvement and community service.

A program like this is needed because the State of Wisconsin is in a financial bind with a lot of money spent on corrections. The cost of incarceration is steady rising as more offenders are entering the system while current offenders are not exiting fast enough. There are a class of inmates who have fulfilled their rehabilitative goals by receiving vocational training and completing essential programming reducing their risk of re-offending, who came to prison between the ages of 13 and 17 who have been incarcerated 13 years or more who would pose no risk to the community if released and would be valuable contributors and assets to society.

In conclusion, I believe a program like this is needed because adult prisoners who came to prison between the ages of 13-17 should be viewed and treated differently from offenders who came to prison as adults. The reason being is that the personalities, characters and ability to fully comprehend long term consequences and effects of negative behavior were still in development stage in 13-17 year olds in comparison to their adult counterparts. A program like this is needed to recognize and reward the rehabilitative efforts of this class of inmates.

In The Interest of Restorative Justice,
Roy Rogers

Ten reasons why I should be given my freedom

First essay is by Andrae Bridges, second by Roy Rogers.

Ten Reasons Why I Feel and/or Think I Should Be Released From Prison
I thought I had already had my bouts with the hardest of writing assignments until I got assigned the arduous task of writing down ten reasons why I feel and/or think I should be released from prison. Wow! What's so hard about that? One may wonder. Especially when you consider the fact that I've written numerous subjects ranging from prison life to sexual abuse, in addition to an autobiography. As a result I consider myself to be a writer and a pretty good one at that. However, ten reasons why I feel and/or think I should be released from prison don't quite roll off the brain as quick or smooth as one may think. Not because I don't feel or think I should be released. But simply because the task at hand calls for me to be self-serving and that's not something I'm accustomed to thus it's very uncomfortable. I could write down ten reasons why someone else should be released from prison in less time than it took me to write this paragraph because it has become something of a habit for me to put others before my own self. On the other hand, I love a healthy challenge and having to write ten reasons why I feel and/or think I should be released from prison has proven to be just that. So please bear with me as I try to meet and conquer said challenge.

(1) I should be released from prison because I have served my debt to society in full. Although I've only served seventeen (17) years out of a life sentence, without the possibility of parole until 2037, my punishment has been harsher than anyone can possibly imagine:
(a) I entered the system at the age of sixteen (16) whereupon I was waived as an adult. Although I thought I knew everything, both prison and maturity made me realize I knew absolutely nothing and was therefore clueless. With a sound understanding and appreciation for life and everything it has to offer, it's devastating to know that I may never get the opportunity to fully experience such. Now having served more time in prison than I had in society tears at my soul every day. Thus I'm constantly reminded of the fact that I threw away the life I never had. In that alone I feel I am more than deserving of a second chance. Better yet, a second, first chance!
(b) I have essentially lost my family, immediate and otherwise. Be it death or simply living life, which has caused them to forget about me. Around these parts that's most commonly known as "Outta sight. Outta mind!" Understandable, yet very painful nonetheless. The list of things that make my punishment harsher than anyone may know grows on. In fact, at times I believe a death sentence would have been far more lenient. Make no mistakes about it, nothing listed here is intended to minimize or take away from that which got me incarcerated. I take full responsibility for my actions, both past and present.
(2) I should be released from prison because prison no longer provide opportunities to atone for my actions, if anything, prison facilities have become institutions that feed everything negative and I refuse to go back down that road. I need to be released so that I might be able to surround myself with positive people who not only encourage me to give back and be constructive but expect nothing less of me.
(3) I should be released from prison because I can be far more productive in society as opposed to incarcerated. Doing prison time after having served seventeen (17) years have proven to be more counter-productive than anything else.
(4) I should be released from prison because I have outgrown these walls that confine me. Not to say that I'm not able or willing to learn more. It's just that I've allowed my time to work for me as opposed to against me. In that I've taken full advantage of every opportunity to grow up and give back, give back and grow up (SEE: Institution Resume). For being able to give back and lead by example ultimately encouraged me to get my mind right and vice versa. I can't do the one without the other. Confinement/ for me now severely limits that. A good example of just how limited we are, from and educational standpoint is the fact that we can only take one vocational course. Although most facilities offer a minimum of two, we can only take one. No matter how much time one has served or has left to serve. After completing one vocational course, that's it. You'd think we'd be allowed to get as much education as we wanted. But the massive population expansion and lack of funding limits that and everything else for that matter.
(5) I should be released from prison because my being here is a waste of time and space. Admittedly, I don't want to see or suggest that anyone be subjected to incarceration as it is today however, there are many who could use this time to get their minds right. Granted the appropriate groups and programs are provided. Once they better themselves they should be given the opportunity to prove such in society, as with myself.
(6) I should be released from prison because I would NOT re-offend.
(7) I should be released from prison because I am willing to be a model for those who get released from prison and refuse to fail. In fact, I want to be in a position where I can assist them as needed.
(8) I should be released from prison because I need to mentor the youth so that they won't make the same mistakes that I once did. I believe juvenile violence can be greatly decreased if someone actually got in there and listened to the youth. And who better than someone such as myself? Instead of constantly looking for ways to lock them up, I want to help devise ways to set them free.
(9) I should be released from prison because I have conquered my personal demons and I live above any and all negative influences. Gone are my self-destructive ways and days of victimization.
(10) I should be released from prison because I have become a good man. Deserving of nothing less than a second chance at this one life so many often take for granted. The beauty in all of this is every person I've met thus far would support everything I've listed here.
Andrae L. Bridges #248420

Ten Reasons Why I Feel and/or Think I Should Be Released From Prison
In support of this initiative for this Redemptive Re-Entry program I submit these ten reasons why I feel and/or think I should be released from prison. Writing this has been a very difficult and challenging endeavor for me, for many reasons. First of all, I am self-conscious and aware of the reason of why I'm incarcerated in the first place, a vicious crime committed against another human being. Second, I'm aware of the victims I created and the horrible pain I've caused and the wounds and scars I left behind. Thirdly, the sentencing court was rightfully looking to punish me for my horrendous behavior and at the same time protect the public. Thus, I'm mindful of these factors and refuse to do or say anything that would depreciate the seriousness of the crime I committed. I have taken active responsibility for my actions and in all humility I submit Ten reasons why I feel and/or think I should be release from prison.

1) I should be released from prison because I am no longer a risk to the public. I have grown up and matured into a responsible adult who has relinquished anti-social behavior and thinking. I came to prison at the age of 16 and began to do all I could do to change and minimize that risk to the public by aligning myself with Biblical spirituality, obtaining my HSED, receiving vocational training as a printer, taking and completing all mandatory programming and optional programming, I became a model inmate who is compassionate and caring towards others. .

2) I should be released from prison because I should be given the opportunity to repair some of the harm I've caused in the community. I haven't been able to do that in prison to the degree of measurable impact. I want to do my part but the current system makes no allowance for that. I'm indebted to the City of Milwaukee to do my part to have a positive impact on it.

3) I should be released from prison so I can help mentor youth and specifically at risk youth who are in danger of hurting themselves, others and their community. I've been where they're at and have suffered great consequences as a result of my behavior and have to live with what I've done for the rest of my life. Moreover, reaching out to the youth will be a continuation of what I've been doing for the past 15yrs in prison.

4) I should be released from prison because my track record in prison personifies what the DOC means when it speaks about rehabilitation. To keep a rehabilitated man like myself incarcerated works against the very rehabilitation I have achieved and continue to achieve because I grow in positive change everyday. There is nothing left for the DOC to offer
me I am an unused resource that's being warehoused.

5) I should be released from prison because it is bad public policy to invest public funds to continue to imprison me since the DOC's rehabilitative goals for me has been fulfilled. My continued incarceration is unnecessary and incurring unnecessary costs to taxpayers. The average cost of my incarceration is approximately $32,000 yearly. Taxpayers have paid $512,000 in the past 15-16 yrs; in 10 more years it would have cost taxpayers $832,000 to keep me incarcerated. And since I'm a lifer with no guarantee of release it will literally become a million dollar investment to keep a man who poses no risk to society incarcerated. These figures are actually lower than what they actually are as they are not adjusted to reflect the rising costs of incarceration.

6) I should be released from prison because I have community leaders who support me being restored back into society.

7) I should be released from prison because I can and will make a difference in Milwaukee.

8) I should be released from prison because I should have the opportunity to bring honor to the name of Glance Venson, Jr., the victim in my case to give him a voice. I want to and will somehow make sure he is remembered as I will do many monumental and life changing things in his name This has been my endeavor for many years. I don't feel I have paid my debt to the community if I am not afforded such an opportunity. The DOC is totally passive in this respect.

9) I should be released from prison because as a lifer I'm less than 1/3 as likely as all released offenders to be rearrested within three years of release from prison (See, George Soros Justice Initiative Project "The Meaning of Life"- This coupled with my history of personal development and positive change (see Rogers resume).
10) I should be released from prison because I realize I'm far more better than the worst I have done. I was incapacitated and punished for who I was ... is there no redemption for who I am now?
Roy Rogers #273696

First version of Redemptive Reentry Proposal

Date: October 3, 2008

To: Alfonso Graham, Parole Chairman

From: Roy Rogers #273696 & Andrae L. Bridges #248420

Re: Redemptive Re-Entry Program Proposal I. INTRODUCTION
This is a proposal for the creation of a Redemptive Re-Entry Program for juvenile offenders who were waived into adult court, convicted of violent crimes, issued lengthy sentences, and have served over thirteen (13) years in prison thus far. The purpose of this program is to facilitate the re-entry of offenders who committed crimes as juveniles back into the community. This program would serve the objectives of:

1. Supporting the idealism of juvenile justice reform from both in and outside of prison as juvenile offenders from the past (1988-1999), present, and future will and should be positively affected by the reform. An excerpt from an article titled Juvenile Injustice? by . Jacqueline Sutton in the Isthmus dated March 7, 2008 reads as follows:
What the public thinks
A national survey revealed the following attitudes toward juvenile justice reform:
· 89% of those surveyed agreed that "almost all youth who commit crimes have the potential to change," and more than seven out of 10 agreed that "incarcerating youth offenders without re­habilitation is the same as giving up on them."

· The public supports providing counseling, educat­ion and job training programs to youth offenders. Eight out of 10 favor relocating state government money from incarceration to programs that seek to help young people become productive citizens.

· Treatment and services are widely seen as more effective than locking people up. Less than 15% of those surveyed thought incarceration was a "very effective" way to rehabilitate youth.

· More than three-quarters of the public favors keeping nonviolent youth in small facilities in their own communities; six in 10 favor commun­ity supervision for nonviolent youth.

· The public believes the juvenile justice system treats low-income, African American and Hispanic youth unfairly. Almost two-thirds of. respondents said poor youth receive worse treatment than middle-class youth who get arrested for the same offense.

SOURCE: THE MACARTHUR FOUNDATION "POTENTIAL FOR CHANGE: PUBLIC ATTITUDES AND POLICY REFERENCES FOR JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEMS REFORM."


2. Affirming the Restorative Justice philosophy by connecting the offender with the community by which they can begin to earn the communities' trust through community service projects of all kinds.

3. Giving rehabilitated offenders who committed crimes as ju­veniles the opportunity to:
a. Be valuable assets to the community.
b. Live out their lives' as productive and construct­ive adults.
c. Use the skills they've learned to prevent others from making the same mistakes as they once did/ namely at-risk youth.

4. Easing overcrowding in the Wisconsin Prison System and the cost of incarceration.

II. PROGRAM TARGETS
This program should be designed to target offenders like the authors of this proposal who:

1. were waived into adult court at the age of sixteen (16) for First Degree Intentional Homicide (PTAC) and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole until January 1, 2020 for Mr. Rogers and September 19, 2037 for Mr. Bridges;

2. have received their HSED/GED's while incarcerated;

3. have learned a vocational trade while incarcerated;

4. have completed both mandatory and non-mandatory programming like AODA, CGIP, Anger Management and Responsible Thinking;

5. have invested over a decade in involvement with Victim Awareness/ Community Service/ and Restorative Justice Projects;

6. have invested over a decade in Juvenile Crime Prevention Programs/ which targeted at-risk youth;

7. have demonstrated a positive change through consistent/ positive institution adjustment;
8. have maintained a history of job employment with good eval­uations by employers;

9. have received certification as a tutor by the Literary Volunteers of America

10. who have not only used their time wisely but have matured physically/ mentally, and spiritually and now truly under­stand the err in their' past violent and self-destructive ways.

Of course the list can go on and on. There are many offenders who fit this description in one way or another. Men like: Eric G. Nash, Dujuan Nash, and Levelt Musgraves, all housed at GBCI. Michael Maldonado housed at FLCI, and Tim Cambell housed at OSCI. The program in a nutshell should target those offenders who:
1. entered prison as children;
2. grew up and matured in prison;
3. have taken an active role in bettering their lives by fully cooperating" with the rehabilitation process and thereby allowing their time to work for them.

This program should also target offenders who, under the normal struct­ure of their sentence will:
1. not get out at all;
2. eventually get out but at an age where they are unable to gain meaningful employment and be independent;
3. only be released by discretionary action of the parole commission.

III. GENERAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS

Although the Redemptive Re-Entry Program can be formatted in many different ways, we have come up with three, which range from the very simple, void of any programs or group participation and the more complex and intense as it is made up of an assortment of programs. Upon successfully completing one of the following programs or simply being recommended (as the first format will require) the offenders would receive a "Special Parole Grant" allowing them to be released on an early parole. This "Special Parole Grant" would override any statutory and court imposed parole eligibility dates:

1. The first and simplest format for the Redemptive Re-Entry Program does not consist of any further program requirements as the selected participants will have already completed all of their required program needs and some. Therefore a *Redemptive Re-Entry Program Review Committee (RRPRC) will examine everything the offender has done and/or accom­plished throughout his incarceration and then determine whether or not he should be recommended to receive the "Special Parole Grant." It would probably be very beneficial RRPRC to have the selected participants write out their plans and goals for the future in the event of being re­leased. Something similar to a parole plan. This simple review can be conducted at any prison facility and there is no program length as program requirements do not apply.

2. The second format is a group type/ similar to that of CGIP Phases I and II, Anger Management or Restorative Justice; which can also be~ conducted at any prison facility. The length of this particular program format would be 4-6 months and the subject matter could differ depending upon the needs of the participants. For example, the RRPRC might want to see an individual complete Restorative Justice before giving him a "Special Parole Grant." In the event of an individual being required to take a specific program or the one that may be created under this format/ it is expected that he will be sent to the facility that offers said program. Successful completion results in a "Special Parole Grant."

3. The third" and final format considered for the Redemptive Re-Entry Program is the lengthiest and most intense as formats one and two are combined here. Format three is one that should be a unit based program that further mot­ivates its' participants to control their risk of reoffend­ing by changing the beliefs and thoughts that support their criminal behaviors and allow them to continue learning, developing and practicing new skills in order to live a more pro-social life-

The unit should be designed to provide an environment within a medium-security institution to support the delivery of Employability Skills, CGIP,Restorative Justice and other treatment programming in accordance with pre-release pro­grams. The unit should exist as an alternative community within the institution that helps to isolate the offenders from the anti-social prison subculture. The unit should' also encourage involvement in pro-social activities such as support groups and community service. Program length should be 18-36 months.

Upon successfully completing the programs on the unit set forth by the Redemptive Re-Entry Program Review Committee the offender should be granted a "Special Parole Grant" or one of the following custody reductions so that the offender. might continue to work towards obtaining said grant:
a. Minimum security
b. Half-way House/Work Release Programming

A Redemptive Re-Entry Program Review Committee should and must be created to:
1. Investigate and collect data on the offenders who were convicted of serious crimes as juveniles and _sentenced in the' range of 50 years to life in prison in the'State of Wisconsin from 1988 to 1999 (New Law inmates).

2. Select the appropriate programs that the Redemptive Re-Entry Program participants will be required to take and successfully complete/ as many of us have received our HSED/GED's, taken a vocational course, or completed other programs such as CGIP, Tutor Training/ Restorative Justice, and so on and so forth,

3. Develop a criteria of eligibility for. this program accepting input from offenders and the community, This criteria should take into consideration:
a Offense
b. Sentence
c. Time served
d. Program completion
e. Institution adjustment
f. Initial A & E recommendations
g. etc.
4. Review and recommend suitable participants for the Redemptive Re-Entry Program.

IV. CONCLUSION

In light of the ever growing Wisconsin prison population, budget woes, and the changing roles of the parole commission, the creation of such a program would help alleviate some of these problems. It gives the WDOC a viable option of who to release and how to release them, as well as ac­knowledge that children who committed horrible crimes are not beyond redempt­ion, contrary to what was once popular belief.

The underlying notion of the-Redemptive Re-Entry Program is that chil­dren who committed horrible crimes rightfully received stiff penalties,-however, the majority of those sentences did not take into account the re­habilitation of these children; that they could grow up to be productive members of society and it wouldn't take a life time, which many were sen­tenced to.

Finally, with all the fascinating information being discovered about the brain development (lack thereof) of juveniles verses that of adults make it easy to conclude that there is such a thing as juvenile injustice. By creating and supporting the Redemptive Re-Entry Program or programs simi­lar to it the WDOC and justice system as a whole can begin to restore the many lives that have been broken. Nothing has been stated here for the pur­pose of excusing ones violent and self-destructive behaviors. In fact, that goes against everything this program would stand for as it is essential that one take full responsibility for his actions, past? present and future. This proposal is, however, a plea to establish a program, which supports juvenile justice reform and grants second chances. This proposal is also a tentative draft that is subject to change and open for suggestions, future rewrites, and endorsements until it is in a form that is viable, taking all relevant factors into consideration.

In the Interests of. Restorative Justice,

Andrae L. Bridges #248420
Roy Rogers #273696

Sabir Wilcher

Sabir Wilcher 304719
Green Bay Correctional Institution
PO Box 19033
Green Bay, Wi 54307


My name is Sabir M. L Wilcher and I am currently housed at the Green Bay Correctional Institution. I'm 30 years old and will be 31 in December. At the time I was arrested in 1995,1 was only 15 years old and not well educated. I was convicted of first degree intentional homicide, 6 days before I turned 16, in 1995.1 was sentenced to life in prison with parole eligibility in December 2025.



Before my conviction, I had never been arrested of a violent offense and I wasn't part of the juvenile detention system like Lincoln Hills, Wells, etc. People would have described me as being very shy when I was a kid. I only completed school through the 6th grade. I was bullied a lot growing up and I only wanted to fit in and impress the same kids who would beat me up every day and chase me home. Both of my parents had a crack cocaine addiction and I basically had to take care of myself. We lived in a bad neighborhood in Milwaukee with drug houses on the same street.

I've been down now a total of 15 + years. While I've been in prison, I've gotten my HSED, 2 Vocational Trade Certificates in Welding and Building Maintenance and Construction. I've completed CGIP phase 1 and 2, Able Minds program, and tutor training.

Although I'm still a little shy, I now accept the fact that everyone is not going to like me and I don't need people's approval to be who I am. I believe I have become a person of substance and value. I have avoided gang activity and drug use in prison and have worked on becoming healthier, mentally and physically. I no longer think like the child who pulled that trigger 15 years ago. I value the lives of others, as well as my own. My goal is to get out and show my nieces and nephews how to be productive and positive role models in the community.

I would also like to share my experience with other kids and help teach them the value of education and that fast money can lead you to bad situations. I just wish people would see me for the man I've become and not the kid I used to be...

Thank you,

Sabir Wilcher

_______________________________________________________________
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

December 25, 1995

TOO YOUNG TO SHAVE, NOT TO KILL
Teen's life collapsed into death At IS, he was a drug house lookout who murdered for his boss —————

David DOEGE Journal Sentinel staff

"Looking back, there are many things 1 would have done differently, and avoiding drugs and my so-called friends would be first on the list." 16-year-old convicted murderer Sabir Wilcher in a letter to Circuit Judge Patricia D. McMahon.

As he strode hump-shouldered into Circuit Court rubbing his chin, Sabir Wilcher had the gangly gait of a young man who wasn't completely comfortable in a body that had not finished growing.

At 15, Wilcher was not old enough to legally do things Wee drink and vote and wasn't physically mature enough to shave.

But Wilcher was old enough to work in a drug house. He was old enough to commit a cold-blooded, execution-style murder of a friend he had known since childhood. And he was old enough to serve a life prison term with parole eligibility beginning Dec. 4, 2025.

"You will be 46 years old at that time when they can consider whether you are appropriate for release to the community," Circuit Judge Patricia D. McMahon told Wilcher. Moments later, Wilcher trudged from McMahon's courtroom, his shoulders slouched the same way they were when he entered.

"I think he didn't have a chance messing with the people from Chicago," his mother, Lynette Wilcher, had told McMahon earlier, referring to gang members who recruited her son to work in a drug house across an alley from his home on W. North Ave. "Where are they now?

"They are on the outside looking in while my son is on the inside looking out."

* * * "I am speaking out of my hart (sic) that what I done was verey (sic) stupid. I would like to say that I am sorry for what I done and being in here (the County Jail) for eight months made me think that what I done was wrong."

* * *

"About two years ago, when Sabir was 13 years old, the supportive resources in his life began to slowly deteriorate," Julie Paasch-Anderson wrote in a waiver study for Circuit Judge Russell Stamper in June. "Both his parents developed a crack cocaine addiction.

"He entered middle school, and the connections that he had at Lloyd Street Grade School were severed. He was introduced to alcohol and marijuana, which he used on a regular basis as time progressed."

The "connections" at Lloyd Street School were a woman who served as a volunteer parent and a physical education teacher. Wilcher's attorney, Ann T. Bowe, said the two took a special interest in the boy because they recognized he was headed for trouble and wanted to "rescue him from the streets."

"His clothes were often ripped and dirty," Paasch-Anderson reported in her study. "He had poor hygiene, and other children often avoided him because of his body odor."

The volunteer parent gave Wilcher clothes, took him on outings and welcomed him at her home. The teacher allowed Wilcher to help out in the gym, got him a membership in die YMCA and took him to sporting events. But when Wilcher left Lloyd Street School for middle school he lost his two rescuers and gravitated toward a street gang, according to the study.

At home, meanwhile. Lynette Wilcher's "judgment was impaired by her own drug and alcohol use," according to the study. Sabir Wilcher's father also had a drug problem and once was put under house arrest by a street gang because of his cocaine debt, the study said.

Within a year of his involvement with the gang, young Wilcher began selling drugs. By March, he was hanging out at the drug house across the alley.

"I have never denied my involvement in this. You see I could not live with myself knowing I was responsible for taking the life of someone."

* * *

Police reports indicate that Emanuel Johnson, a 21-year-old man running the drug house, was the first person to tell Wilcher that "the minister," a shadowy figure from Chicago, wanted Wilcher to work at the drug house. Johnson eventually sent Wilcher by bus to Chicago to meet the minister, and when he returned a couple days later, he was assigned the task of keeping watch for police and was to be paid $100 every other day.

Inside the drug house on N. 14th St., a brown, rundown duplex, worked three "servers" and a "weight man" named Elvis Anderson, 20, who packaged the cocaine, according to police. Also inside the house were a sawed-off ,410-gauge shotgun, a rifle, a semiautomatic pistol and a .22-caliber, black revolver, according to police.

Beside in charge of the drug house, Johnson served as the runner who brought cocaine to Milwaukee and took the $700 to $800 daily proceeds to Chicago, according to a criminal complaint.

After a disagreement with the minister in early April, Johnson later told police, he began forming a plan to kill the minister and Anderson. Anderson, Johnson explained, had to die because he was too close to the minister.

* * *

"At night, I can't sleep. I tose (sic) and turn thinking about that night over and over agin (sic)."

* * *

On the night of April 22, Johnson gave Wilcher the .22-caliber revolver and told him it was his duty to kill Anderson. According to the plan, when it was time for Anderson to leave for the night, he would have to be driven home and it was during that ride when he would be killed.

Later, when Anderson asked for a ride, Johnson got behind the wheel of a friend's car, Anderson got into the passenger seat and Wilcher, with the revolver in his pocket, sat behind him.

Moments after they drove off, Anderson said he wanted to pick up some food, so Johnson drove to a McDonald's restaurant at 920 W. North Ave. After pulling away from the drive-through, Johnson rolled his window up, turned tine radio volume to high, glanced at Wilcher and nodded.

As Anderson sat with the bag of food in his lap, Wilcher raised the handgun and held it about 6 inches from the back of Anderson's head, he later told police. "Wilcher closed his eyes, turned his head down and to the left and pulled the trigger three times," Police Detective Allan Schoessow testified at Wilcher's preliminary hearing earlier this year.

Johnson drove to a dead-end alley in the 2400 block of N. 10th St. and pulled Anderson's body out of the car. After taking a packet of cocaine from Anderson's pocket, Johnson drove back to the drug house.

" You act like you done this before." Johnson told Wilcher, according to a police report.

When they went back inside the drug house, Wilcher handed the gun to a server who cleaned it, Wilcher later said, before he took it home.

The next day, police announced the arrests of Johnson and Wilcher.

Johnson subsequently took his case to trial, was convicted and sentenced to a life prison term with no parole eligibility for 40 years.

Wilcher pleaded guilty in November and was sentenced recently.

"He was 15 years and four months old at the time of the shooting," Bowe said at the sentencing hearing. "This is not a young person who was saved from the streets by family members ... but someone who was able to shoot somebody in the back of the head with no provocation."

* * *

"I hope the victoms (sic) family forgives me for what I have done. But now all I can do is accept the penalty for the crime I committed. I am so verey (sic) sorry!!"

Three Poems By Tyrone Munson

Tyron D Munson #35616
PO Box 351
Waupun , Wi 53963

****CONGRATULATION****GRADUATION****
Congratulation,you graduated,but no one will call your name.No,there will be no role call,no acceptance speech!You did not finish school or make the deans list.There was no diploma,you just simply graduated.Sad,, no mother,no father,no brother,no sister.No one to cheer your name.What for? No one came to honor you,"CONGRATULATIONS,for your GRADUATION"!

"Who do you think you are to receive such a prestigious award?You only survived a household of trama.There is no blue ribbon because your father left you at an early age.You don't get a courageous of the year trophy because you survived the family secret and your mother's shame. That at the hands of someone you trusted.They, did awful things to you."Ha" you think it noble,there is no B.A. there is no master's degree.

For your degree's are third degree burns,that runs from your face to your torso.From hot grease being thrown on you because your mother says every time she looks at you,she see's your father.A mathematician,never saw that in your future,and besides that you are too dumb for that,at least this is what everyone is telling you.You want to be a mathematician? Well solve this problem,One mother on crack. Plus a father who is not even a part of your life,which really is a minus,divided by drugs alcohol,dropping out of school.Equals committing a crime,ending up in prison or dead.

Yeah "CONGRATULATIONS" as you look into the mirror,and you have come to hate him that stares back at you.Because now you believe everything people said about you.No you should not have low self esteem.Suck it up! didn't they tell you real men don't suppose to cry.But this boy who is only 11 years old says to himself I am not a man.But he is indeed a man,but the only thing he can remember was when he was this boy.Now at 30,he is still stuck at 11.CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR GRADUATION.

For this time you have made a stand,from being powerless,to being power ful.You are honored for your silent courage.You are praised for your resilience.Not backing down from when life smacked you around.CONGRATULATIONS. Because you GRADUATED,from a school that had no dreams.The teachers have all failed you,but you passed.Not because of some book that told you this,or you felt that you needed validation from someone else.Or some paper acknowledging mere accomplishments don’t even seem to suffice.
No "CONGRATULATIONS you GRADUATED".Because you choose not to stay in a box,you did not make excuses.You choose not to allow your past,to say who you are in your present.So I think that I should CONGRATULATE you on your GRADUATION.There is no need for a cap & gown,be proud of who you've become.Hold your head up and stand tall,smile for the camera. You made it.not how other's think you should have,but you made it......
"CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR GRADUATION......

This is for anyone who have went through anything in your life. I want you to understand that you have graduated from a school of life and if you are in a right frame of mind I think that you should be proud of yourself.Not for the many bad things that happen,but for you making it this far.It counts for something CONGRATULATIONS


D.B.I. (DEATH BY INCARCERATION)
You have heard the saying, "Life in prison without the possibility of Parole".This is an incorrect way of saying it.No, the proper term to use is "Death in prison without the possibility of reaching your goals.”
When you speak of life,I see it a whole lot differently then most.Life consist of hope, freedom, space , joy, fullfillment,and satisfaction.These are the things of life. Life opens up doors, opportunity,you are able to be someone.There is a chance in life,although restricted there is no restrictions.Again opportunity to be whatever you want to be,having that chance.To have an investment in your natural abilities,your God giving talents.

When I speak of life what also comes to mind is freedom.In life you have a freedom,freedom to express yourself without any consequence. Freedom is to live how you choose to live.Not a freedom to do whatever you want to do no matter who gets hurt.But a freedom to be in love with someone,to really care if they are hurting.This freedom is not stifled by rules that utterly disregard the human physique.Where the natural senses are controlled by unnatural senseless people. With a new respect you are able to taste what is good.To enjoy the flavors of what life has to offer.
To smell,that which smell good to the central of your nerve system.To touch the very essence of what this freedom is all about,Life.Whether it be a plant,a dream,a new born baby,a beautiful women,or whatever it maybe.To hear a song,a word of encouragement.A simple I love you,or what about children playing outside,the sound of her heart beat as you both lay together.Yes this is life,to see those things which at one point you were blinded to.Love,respect family,marriage,to care,to have compassion,and understanding.

This is freedom,this is what life is all about,But where I'm at is death.I received death in prison.To live under the dictates of those who doesn't even believe in my life concept.Those whom are so caught up in trying to prove that I am the criminal,that they,themselves have failed to see there own criminal mental and emotional behaviors.Death in prison,there is no enjoyment watching second by second,minute by minute,hour by hour,day by day,week by week,month by month,and year by year going by and you can’t help but think,"I'm" dying.My dreams of ever being what I wanted to be is slowly wasting away.

This is a superficial reality,what seems to be never is.You have no more chances,you cant go to the beach,you cant watch movies with your family.You know the little things,there is no dream job here.In all actuality you no longer live.You just merely exists.So there really is no such thing as life in prison.There is however death.Death of your hopes,death of your dreams,even the harsh reality of losing family members.This is not living,although you may have to settle or some how condition your mind for acceptance.This is not living! do not have life in prison,no I have death by incarceration.

TYRONE DEVON
(TREATED)
You strip me from my freedom,I admit I've did some wrongs.But why are you trying to keep me,away from home for way to long? If I accentuate my culture,you misjudge me for being in a gang! But you are a part of a "union" an "institution" that's all the same.I maintain a positive mind frame,but in your brain I'm still the same.Just because you are stagnated in your growth,doesn't mean that I cant change.

How dare you define your morality,by the position you hold over me. Looking down at me with a frown,but seriously you're worse than me.I've committed crimes to get me here,but now I digress from such behaviors.On the other hand,you back hand your children and noisy neighbor’s.On a drunken tantrum,you mentally destroy whomever they want to be.By callin them fat,cunt,ugly,or stupid!You have no right to keep on judging me.

After 400 years,we are still in the same boat,no buses are used to transport.Teenager's ranging from 12-thru-18,giving death sentences,in a all white mans court.Sent to prison,the new plantation,to work for meaningless wages.All while keeping us locked down in cell's smaller than little dog cages.The department of corrections,no let me correct you.There is no correction in prison.More like the death of connections or destitute of colored men.How about the destruction of our children.

I admit there are men who still belong in prison.Because they fail to realize the prison within them.But there are some whom you locked up as kids,we have long since recompensed for the things that we've did. Society if you hear me,please don't be ignorant to the facts,that concealed behind these prison walls are many people who want to give back...
TYRONE DEVON

Lloyd Jarrow

Lloyd and nephew

Lloyd Jarrow #365826;
general Delivery
LA State Prison
Angola, LA 70712


FREEDOM ON LIFE SUPPORT BY: LLOYD JARROW
What do you do as a juvenile sentenced to natural life for a crime you did not commit and the judge refuses to consider "New Evidence" that the prosecutor withheld . . . evidence that support your innocence?
What do youdo when the judge faults you because your attorney didn't check the prosecutor's file for this evidence, some, 10 months before trial?
What do you do when the judge's ruling disregard all the motions your attorney filed requesting this evidence, two weeks before and during trial?
What do you do when the judge's ruling even disregard her own ORDERS (before and during trial) for the prosecutor to hand over this evidence?
What do you do when the judge's ruling disregard the law and the fact that the prosecutor lie to your attorney and herself (in open court) about the mere existence of this evidence?
What do you do when the judge's ruling disregard the prosecutor's, inadvertent, admission to having sent you this evidence only "by mistake"?
What do you do when the judge's ruling disregard a sworn affidavit from your attorney affirming your innocence and/or the prosecutor's withholding of such evidence?
What do you do with "New Evidence" that would have permitted the jury to see your case from a whole different light?
What I've decided to do is show you just how inconsiderate and wrong a judgment can be ...

If you have any comments or wish to be a part of my mental support team you can help write or email at the addresses below. The only requirement is that you are positive and optimistic — believe in change.
Lloyd Jarrow General Delivery La. State Prison Angola, LA 70712
email: lloydjarrow@myjail - mailman.com
NOTE: "When someone is innocent it is everyone's business"
— LuLu


Stop
Please don't stone me
For I am innocent.
with the fault of the indigent

We can't go on this way, our lives
has taken a different turn..
as a people detached &unconcern

We are more than distinct colors
We are the spectrum & common neighbors..
a lost Friend, Family, savior

How did we get here, how do we change..
For the higher good, for humane

We share the same sun & recycle
The same air….I am u and u are me-there

Love is stronger than pride..
It's my heart to u
It's God's will-for I have abide

Here's the bridge, save your talk..
It's the son of God at your feet bleeding
Head, heart, and soul.


P.S.
Sometimes we don't realize
Just how much we mean to someone
..just how much we are connected

Sometimes we don't realize the power
We can draw from each other.. sometimes we are afraid

Sometimes fear keeps us
Until we lose hope & foresight
To see beyond the moment
Sometimes we forget….



Lloyd Jarrow #365826;
general Delivery
LA State Prison
Angola, LA 70712


A Once Illiterate Offender expresses His Innocence
It was 55 days after my 17th birthday when I was arrested on suspicion of murder. I was suspected after two witnesses said they saw me w/the shooter headed toward the scene minutes before the shot. I was in tenth grade –special aid –reading and writing on a 4th grade level. I had no idea then that I’d end up here, learning to read and writing about my innocence.
Let me explain. Those witnesses were ex-offenders and drug addicts-hardly enough? They were thrown in jail until the trial, allegedly, to ensure they would attend. The prosecutor had to come up w/something else, but there was nothing else. Although I was at the bar past curfew none of those witnesses saw me shoot or kill anyone! I had never been convicted of a crime. All the evidence pointed to the shooter-who confessed, yet maintained his innocence. During the trial my attorney stressed “my client is innocent and we’re not saying he was an accessory; we’re saying he was not involved in any way.”
In spite of this, the prosecutor tried to get me to plea to a lesser charge of 5 years probation, if I’d agree to testify that I was w/the shooter when he robbed and shot the victim. I wanted to, out of fear and desperation but it wasn’t true! Because I refused, the prosecutor had no witness to the murder so in the midst of the second day of trial he allowed the shooter to plea to a lesser charge (15 years) if he agreed to testify that I was the shooter, which he did. I was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to natural life in prison.
My trial went swift and without the evidence that would have supported m innocence. The evidence that was withheld by the prosecutor came later, years later, “by mistake.”
I say mistake because this is what the prosecutor said when and how I received the Grand Jury testimony and statements of witnesses, which I was totally unaware of. This evidence implicated his two witnesses of murder. The prosecutors had the trial jury believe his witnesses had no reason to lie, as did the detective, for indictment! When the grand jury ask about “ any other person other than’me’ that had people to come forward and implicate, he lied, and covered for them, in order to make his investigation more reliable. I tried to petition the courts with this newly discovered evidence(pro se) , along with a sworn affidavit from my trial attorney that” If I had discovered these statements I would have done everything under allowable law and have used these statements to support your innocence!!


If you would like to stand with Lloyd in his fight for freedom an d education, you can help by writing to him at:
Lloyd Jarrow #365826; general Delivery; LA State Prison; Angola, LA 70712.

Note: Lloyd was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole . If you believe that sentence was too cruel and teens especially should be given a second chance, share your concern by contacting Citizens for A second Chance; Kelly Orians, 504-522-5437.
Kelly Orians is the campaign coordinator for the Juvenile Justice Project of Louisiana.


“Many small people, who in many small places do many small things can alter the face of the world”
Piece of graffiti from the Berlin Wall, Fall 20 years ago.

MY FOUNDATION

If you had ask me to describe my foundation in high school(i.e. round the time I was abducted into the adult prison system) I wouldn’t have been able to. I’m sure I had some sort of impressionable foundation. But if you had asked me to express it in writing I probably would have looked at you with contempt and alarm, esp had you been one of my teachers. It’s not that I hated writing I just didn’t know how, i.e. to read, write or spell. And everyone of my teachers know but did very little to help. I don’t fault them anymore than I felt myself cause there were times when I was plain stubborn and childish. As a jaded teen I felt alone and uncertain. I didn’t know how to discern or make friends. In fact, I fought against the very foundation of my social puberty.
At home there was no one there capable of schooling me, at least not academically. My father was deadbeat and gone. I only knew his name and face cause we wear the same. My mom did her best. She was illiterate and dying from depression, drugs and physical abuse. Though she maintained a steady job for 27 years I had to sieze he checks or whatever was left of it. She could tell me the day before payday no matter what she says or do I was not to give her the money back. Instead pay the bills and if it wasn’t enough I had to flip what she had until I had enough for food, school clothes and rent. It wasn’t easy to deny her esp. where she was jones’n for a fix. Then she would cry, beg, scream, demand and plea for a hit or a few dollars to get one. It hurted me to see her in that state as much as it hurted to go without food, field trip money and decent clothes. It hurted even more because I didn’t understand. I didn’t understand the foundation she was installing in me. A foundation of strength and independence.’
That was her gift to me. And cause of it I’m able to stand firm inspite of being sentenced to natural life as a juvenile.. inspite of the grief of loosing her… inspite of having spent over 5,675 days of my life in prison for a crime I did not commit….Inspite of it all she gave me a foundation…

A CRY FOR INNOCENCE by Lloyd Jarrow
I am not sorry and neither will I apologize for a crime I did not commit!! Would you?Some people say its funny how the system convicts the innocent. As one, I don’t believe it’s funny at all. I believe it’s a random disregard of human life. I believer it’s murder!!! So random and murderous to where Innocent Projects ha d to be set up throughout the states. Unfortunately, most of all of them only accept DNA based cases. What’s to happen to those cases where the accuse is coerced to give a false confession, or (like me) where the D.A. withheld favorable evidence that support your innocence..evidence that not only implicate his witnesses of murder,but point out where/how the lead detective covered for them in his investigation and /or testimony before the grand jury ?!? It’s a game like putting coins into the pinball machine. You cast your ballot to elect them and they cheat you by withholding evidence. They cheat believing “trials are too important to be left up to juries,” Someone once told me this is not a world for the honest! This is not a place where people are concern about anything beyond themselves. For all the wrong reasons I’m compelled to believe it. But I know there are people that are just as concerned bout the innocent as they are about the environment.
Even still, if I ask for help – if I ask you to stand with me as an Innocent Juvenile Offender sentenced to NATURAL LIFE (to death) I wonder if you’ll brush me off as just another innocent person? I hope not but if you do please remember my cry and:

“The moment we stop
Fighting for each other that’s
The moment we lose our humanity”



Hope
I hope you are sober
At least enough to remember
And appreciate the treasure of life

I hope for tomorrow
For a more promising future
For love and space to grow

I hope you are inspired,
Inspired to fight for your dreams
Like oxygen fighting pollution to
Breathe

I hope you smile

Ivy Carter

Ivy Carter #206034
CCI; PO Box 900;
Portage, Wi 53901

Background
I have been incarcerated since I was 19 years of age. I will be 38 later this year. I have practically spent more time in prison than I have in the "free world," and I must say justifiably so. I am serving time for the worst crime that could be committed—murder. The specifics of what happened is irrelevant when in the end a person loss their life.
I must admit that when I was nineteen I did not know what life was about/ let alone value it. I was an angry abused child who was convinced that the world was "cold and heartless" so I had to be the same way in order to survive. It wasn't until years later that I realized that line of thinking was wrong and I had to change it.
My "stint" in prison has not been an easy one—change is never easy—however/ it has been a productive one. With confidence and pride I can say that I am nothing like the angry/ cold/ and heartless teenager that I was eighteen years ago. I not only know what life is about/ I also value and respect it to the fullest. If you have time check out my article "Where's The Governor?" Thanks. ELABH!

Where's The Governor?By Ivy James Carter III ©2010
What if we did not have governors for each state in this country and there was no one to fill that chief executive position?. Hypothetically, the people of each state would be ungoverned. History reveals that ungoverned people will lead to anarchy--disorder and confusion. If it is likely for ungoverned adults to lead to disorder and confusion, should the same logic be applied to adolescent delinquents whose prefrontal cortex, "which governs the 'executive functions' of reasoning (i.e., advanced thought, and impulse control)," isn't fully functional1? The human brain in adolescents does not mature and complete its development until around the age of 25. Put simply, adolescents do not possess the ability to reason and behave like adults.
With an underdeveloped brain--no governor — adolescents search for boundaries in life that will help them make sense of the seemingly chaotic world around them. For the lucky ones, that quest may lead to some form of "brief" punishment from their parents. For the not so fortunate ones, that quest may lead to a "permanent" punishment that can last until old age. I, like many other delinquent adolescents currently incarcerated, are among the not so fortunate ones. I am not against punishing delinquent adolescents for crimes they commit; however, I do question the logic behind locking them up and throwing away the key when their "poor decision making" was a part of who they were. Isn't there a more reasonable, judicious, and balanced approach toward keeping order and protecting the public once the child has learned how to reason and act like a responsible adult?

"When I was a child I acted like a child..."
By no standards would I call myself an angel. In fact, if you look up "adolescent delinquent" in the dictionary, you will more than likely see my picture. I was a troubled youth who saw trouble as a way of getting attention and making a name for myself. Each time I got into trouble I was referred to juvenile court where the focus was more on punishment than the reformation of the corrupt thoughts and behaviors that I had. I was left to handle and figure those things out for myself and, like a dog, I chased my tail believing that I would "get it." Unfortunately, the only thing I got at the age of 19 was a life-sentence with the chance for parole a few weeks after I turn 64 years old.

"...When I became a man I stopped doing childish things."
1 Coalition for Juvenile Justice "What Are the Implications_ of Adolescent Brain Development for Juvenile Justice?" 2006, p.3.
I have been in prison for the better part of 18 years now, and I am nothing like the stubborn, hardheaded, "youngster" that I was when I first got locked up. In fact, it is safe to say that I am no longer an adolescent trying to make sense of the world around me. I would consider myself a man who knows how to reason and be responsible.
During my incarceration, I have completed many programs and read thousands of books that have helped me develop constructive thoughts and behaviors. Those that get to know me often ask, "What are you doing in prison?" implying that I do not belong in prison. I explain in so many words, that the person I am now may not belong in prison, but it is the "big ball of idiot" that I used to be that keeps me confined.

"When you know better, you do better...Over-incarceration"
At what point does incarceration for a "delinquent adolescence" become over-incarceration?
I do not have access to the statistics, but I am confident that the numbers will show that a good percentage, over 75% or 3 out of 4, delinquent adolescents sent to prison that have served 10 years or more, are least likely to re-offended. My point, once their brain fully developed, they disposed of the thoughts and behaviors that led them to prison in the first place.
I know many men like myself who came to prison as "boys" and self-reformed into respectable men who now see criminal behavior as detestable. The positive thoughts and actions we have incorporated into our lives can be used to stop the next troubled teen from following in our footsteps, and guide us toward being productive members in our communities. The odds of us "re-offending" are not the same as the adult "career criminal." Now that we have learned better ways, we choose to do better things. So what's the point of keeping us incarcerated? In so many ways, we are being over-incarcerated.

Tyrone Munson

Tyrone D Munson #35616
PO Box 351
Waupun , Wi 53963

I too was a Juvenile, first time offender who before my crime took place was not in trouble with the law. Never been to juve, did not even have a violent history. Got sentenced to 290 years in prison when I was 17 years old. At the mental age of a 12 year old. My crime was not a reflection of my daily living. But was a result of the many unresolved childhood issues I never had a chance to properly release. In turn I violently raped a women. Which in turn did not feed anything other than the hate, bitterness, anger, pain, and me being raped. Not only of my childhood innocents, but my ability to properly express what was taking place as a child. There will never be a right justification to what I've done. But I can say my actions now reflect that of a different person. From a boy to a man. The reality of this situation is even in prison. I still battle this hierarchy of what crime is the worst crime to commit.



You couldn't have told me that I would be in prison for sexual assault. Not only because I knew it was wrong but it was not socially acceptable in my community. Neither is it in prison, which I still can't understand how can one shun a rapist, but accept a murderer. That always puzzled me. For the simple fact both crimes you have taken the security away from that person. Except in a murder that person doesn't have to feel it. It will be the family who feels it so to me both are equally wrong. All in all unfortunately I have this jacket, and I have to wear it so I might-as-well speak out about it. The harsh reality is a lot of young as well as older men is coming to prison for rape. But many of them never get treatment. Most still deny it only because again it is socially "not cool"!



Yes I am ashamed of the things I've done but I refuse to continue to make it about me. I did the crime, and society wants me to do forever for what I did as a child. I truly believe that I can be of some assist-ance to come to understanding the why behind the will to do something so horrendous. I want to share my story in the hopes of enlightment. Not saying people won’t still have there opinions. However it will give one a pen point.


Written by: Echo DeVon (Tyrone D. Munson)
***
****Congratulations****Graduation*
Congratulations, you graduated/ but no one will call your name. No there will be no roll call. "There will Be no acceptance speech!" You did not make the deans list. You just simply graduated. Sad though, no mother, no father, no sister, or no brother. No one to cheer your name, what for? No one came to honor you, Congratulations, for your Graduation.
"Who do you think you are?"
To receive such a prestigious award. You only survived a house hold of trauma. There is no blue ribbon because your father left you at an early age. You don't get a courageous of the year award trophy, because you survived the family secret, and your mother's shame. That at the hands of someone you trusted. They did awful things to you. "Ha" you think it noble, there is no B.A./ there is no Master's Degree.

No your degrees are third degree burns, that run from your face to your torso. From hot greases being thrown on you because your mother say; every time she looks at you she sees your father. A mathematician, never saw that in your future. Besides, you are too damn stupid for that, at least this is what everyone is telling you. Do you want to be a mathematician? Well solve this problem. One mother on crack, plus a father who is not even a part of your life which really is a minus. Divided by drugs, alcohol, and dropping out of school. Equals committing a crime, ending up in prison, or dead.

Yeah "Congratulations" as you look into the mirror. You have come to hate him that stares back at you. Because now you believe everything people said about you. You're ugly, you will never amount to anything, and that you were a mistake. No you shouldn't have low self-esteem. Suck it up, didn't they tell you real men aren't suppose to cry. But this boy who is only 11 years old says to himself, I am not a man. Though indeed he is a man, however the only thing he can remember was when he was this boy. Now at the age of 33 he is still stuck at 11.

Congratulations on your Graduation.
For this time you have made a stand, from being powerless to powerful. You are honored for your silent courage. You are praised for your resilience. Not backing down from when life smacked you around. Congratulations because you Graduated from a school that had no dreams, the teachers have all failed you but you'passed- Not because of some book that told you this. Or you telt that you needed validation from someone else. Not even some papers acknowledging mere accomplishments, not even this seem to suffice.
No Congratulations you Graduated, because you chose not to stay in a box, you did not make excuses. You chose not to allow your past to say who you are in the present. So I think I should Congratulate you on your Graduation, there is no need for a cap and gown, please be proud of who you've become. Hold your head up and stand tall, yeah that's it now smile for the camera. You made it. Not how others think you should have but you made it......"Congratulations on your Graduation......

This is for anyone who have went through anything in your life. I want you to understand that you have graduated from a school of life. If you are in your right mind. I think you should be proud of yourself. Not for the many bad things that happen to you, but for making it this far. It counts for something Congratulations.


FAMILY
(The new Reality)

I was born out of my mother's womb, on January 26, 1980.

Shortly thereafter, I was adopted by a different family. This was a family of a different race, a family of a whole different creed. This new family I was adopted by, treats me worse than a red headed step child(as they would say).

Our parents never reward us for the many tries. We are always punished though if we do wrong. My brother's,(All boys because this family has no girls)are all different in many ways. We all come from the same mother of bad choices and wrong decisions. We rarely talk about mother, because sometimes it seems to painful to face. If we do talk about mother, it tends to have a negative effect on us. Leaving us angry, bitter, sad, and depressed. Mainly because, if we had listened to our real parents, We wouldn't have to face the ugly truths of our other mother. Bad choices and wrong decisions.

What can I say, my family is so dysfunctional. On top of this we all have major issues, some of my brother's are killers. many of my brothers sold drugs, a lot of them raped women, robbed there own birth mothers, smoked dope, drinked liquor and stole things."You name it we did it"! Like I said we all are alike in some ways. We all have taken something. We all have stole something or something have been stolen from us. Any way it goes we are here, The sad part about is, alot of us did not have our birth fathers. So now we are forced into a situation where we have to listen to our new parents.

There names are Mr. and Mrs. Correctional Officer.

We have to listen to everything they say. If not, we will be punished. Or they will send us to our uncle's and aunt's house. There names are the white Shirt family. Mr. and Mrs. Captain, or Lieutenant. Last and surely least, we have the grand of daddies. The Warden, he doesn't do anything but hand out orders. To be honest I dislike this family. But the truth is, without them as a whole. Everyone, I wouldn't have seen my worth. Because of my brother's(some of them)and there unwillingness to change. It gives me all the more hope to change. Because I refuse to remain the same. Because of the Go's/White Shirt's and the Warden. I strive even harder, they propel me to become a better man. Because honestly they don't give a care if I do or not.

Like I said this whole family is dysfunctional. Everybody has there issues, but your best bet is to work on them while you can. Because there is so much hatred in this family, they will kick you out of the house(prison)
with nothing, no tool's to utilize on the street's. So use this opportunity to get better. Then you will get
out and be with the ones who really loves you.. If not......Just as I am, you will be a part of this

family until to die. Unless by the power of God something changes....... THINK ABOUT IT.


CRY
Why should I cry didn't nobody hurt me.When my father died.I didn't feel that he deserted me.There is no way I could shed any tears,for seeing my mother being abused and using drugs for many years.Waking up in the middle of the night wishing tne pain would go away.Praying that someone could help us,I begin to feel like a through away.My feelings wasn't hurt,when others treated me like dirt.Wearing my heart on my sleeve leaving it exposed,so it was easy to make me bleed.In agony a child was conceived,but at that moment I only cried to breath.Besides I was always told ,that real men don't suppose to cry. Suck it up,keep going,hold it all inside. This crazy part for me though I was just a kid. Who suffered a great deal of misfortune at the hands of what my parents did.

"Shut up boy" for I give you something to cry for.Would be the words I hear after getting beat with extension cords.As welts appeared on my body,I begin to question what to live for.l want to cry out but I'm afraid because I don't want to lose my inner pride.Crying makes me soft,and 1 always want to appear strong.I don't want anyone to know that deep down inside I'm fighting to hold on.I love my daughter so much.That at night I cry myself to sleep.But I will not tell anyone, then you'll think I'm weak.Sentence a teenager to life in prison he won't even feel it. He didn't feel the pain he caused,he just kept on living.

Should I cry if a person die I really cared about? For all the tears I held in for years man just let it out! I'm tired of hurting can there just be one day I can go and feel relief? Or will I be forever haunted for the life I lived on the streets,As I touched my face a stream of water begin to run down my cheek. In my mind I've crossed that line hoping no one can see me.When I look back on everything in my life, I started to notice a lie.The lie was this,what I truly missed."Real men are not afraid to cry!"By: Echo Devon.

Product Of Environment
An adolescent bombarded by the disposition of his environmental control.A absentee father so in dissipation he spirals out of control. A transference from the umbilical cord.The child consumes in the womb what the mother experience in life.From love, hate, fear, drugs, or abuse of alcohol. To violence, depression, bitterness, or rage the fetus can feel it all.

When the child is conceived how precious is he, a new addition, to a broken family. But little do he know, that before he even grow he has been infected with an unstable mentality. So when the time comes for him to transform, that boy into a man. The stifling of his emotions kill any chance that he will have in life to ever advance. Not fully understanding this metamorphosis, he immediately internalize. That which his mother embodied the negative forces, hate, fear and constant lies.

The father isn't there to cultivate, or properly inform this man-child. So the things he is now experiencing is self-destruction in
form of acting out. Frora unsafe sex, selling drugs, smoking weed drinking and staying out all night. To robbing people, having shoot outs, even organizing neighborhood gang fights. The list can go on, because the true identity of this man child has been stripped away.

Self-hatred, low self-esteem, no self-concept or structure to build a foundation. So the school of the streets taught him selfishness, self preservation, get what you can get by all means, even if that meant by annihilation.What a devastation, for a man-child to be lags than what God created. Not because he chose this road, but it is evident that past mistakes made it.

No wonder he grows to kill, lie, rob, rape, commit suicide, or end up behind bars. Because there was no way he could escape, it was
already injected into his heart. The only way this cycle can be broke is going back to where it was birth. Then replacing the falsehood that was taugnt. With the truth to his already damaged self-worth. Acceptance is essential, but forgiveness is key. To unlocking the mystery, a lost product of society.,...
BY: Tyrone Munson
B.K.A Echo Devon

White Walls
As I stare at these walls,painted in this cell.I can’t help but to realize to them I've failed.They look back at me,as if I am gum on the bottom of there shoe's.With judgmental eye's they say “I’m better than you!" If I pay close attention I sometimes hear them speak,some with a respectful tone. Yet others yell at me.If history tells me anything this is nothing new. Because the white walls that surrounds me,surrounded ray ancestor's too.The only color I really see,is those in the color green just like me.I also see the color blue but they're is a contrast between me and you.

Because of my failures I've been sent away to be stock in a prison.At least thirty thousand dollars for my existence is what
your bidding.Racism & reality goes hand in hand,am I a racist because I despise the abuse of authority from a white man? Oh you
thought these white walls I speak of was literal? When in all actuality this message is not subliminal.I've been taken away from family,and brought to another land.Where white is dominate;from the t.v. shows to the white Co's,the nurses,and psychologist,even
those who do parol.

Everything I do is considered a gang,if I make one mistake the
walls say's "He'll never change."I'm considered to be manipulative
because I posses social skills.If I look at these walls for to long
they tell me how I should feel.I miss black women with there attitude,and curvaceous temple.The way they love and care for me,these attributes very instrumental.I have now developed a liken for white women.But there is a rule,don't look to hard and don't touch.This rule goes against natural law because I1^ a man who respect and like all women so much.

My assertiveness is considered aggressive,if I'm passionate then I
must be mad.When they don't understand me they write antisocial, depressed or sad.Everytime I wake up,I'm reminded of my life on pause. All because I'm en-trapped in the midst of these "White Walls"........
By Echo Tyrone Devon

ME (Complex-of-ME)
A detriment of my pride has commence to take shape.
A deformity in my character perpetuate a masquerade
so I'm faking. Trying to be some one I really cant be,
an adolescent in adult shoes. Failing to articulate this concept of self-hate so I choose. To be a fool and drop out of school, and conform to society stereo-types.

Instead of pursuing an edumication I pick up a dope sack,
or check, check mic. There is more to my plight in life,
but I assimilate to what's being taught. Because the truth
of my identity is like a fiction novel that can ba brought.
Who am I?" No the question is who I am not? I am not your
average Joe. I have the full capacity to think, speak and live like a palm tree so I grow. I feel, I cry, I laugh, I'm shy. I learn from a lie, I love so I sigh….

I empathize with emotional muscles that I have learned to exercise. So this detriment that 1 speak of is no longer an issue, Like one big tissue I have become a gentle man soft to the core. Now when you see me,you don't, see this peter-pan
anymore. Although I am still flawed, in my humanistic capabilities. I accept the man I've become , but I embrace this
boy inside of me..
Echo Devon





D.B.I. (DEATH BY INCARCERATION)
You have heard the saying, "Life in prison without the possibility of Parole".This is an incorrect way of saying it.No, the proper term to use is "Death in prison without the possibility of reaching your goals.”
When you speak of life,I see it a whole lot differently then most.Life consist of hope, freedom, space , joy, fullfillment,and satisfaction.These are the things of life. Life opens up doors, opportunity,you are able to be someone.There is a chance in life,although restricted there is no restrictions.Again opportunity to be whatever you want to be,having that chance.To have an investment in your natural abilities,your God giving talents.

When I speak of life what also comes to mind is freedom.In life you have a freedom,freedom to express yourself without any consequence. Freedom is to live how you choose to live.Not a freedom to do whatever you want to do no matter who gets hurt.But a freedom to be in love with someone,to really care if they are hurting.This freedom is not stifled by rules that utterly disregard the human physics.Where the natural senses are controlled by unnatural senseless people. With a new respect you are able to taste what is good.To enjoy the flavors of what life has to offer.

To smell,that which smell good to the central of your nerve system.To touch the very essence of what this freedom is all about,Life.Whether it be a plant,a dream,a new born baby,a beautiful women,or whatever it maybe.To hear a song,a word of encouragement.A simple I love you,or what about children playing outside,the sound of her heart beat as you both lay together.Yes this is life,to see those things which at one point you were blinded to.Love,respect family,marriage,to care,to have compassion,and understanding.

This is freedom,this is what life is all about,But where I'm at is death.I received death in prison.To live under the dictates of those who doesn't even believe in my life concept.Those whom are so caught up in trying to prove that I am the criminal,that they,themselves have failed to see there own criminal mental and emotional behaviors.Death in prison,there is no enjoyment watching second by second,minute by minute,hour by hour,day by day,week by week,month by month,and year by year going by and you can’t help but think,"I'm" dying.My dreams of ever being what I wanted to be is slowly wasting away.

This is a superficial reality,what seems to be never is.You have no more chances,you cant go to the beach,you cant watch movies with your family.You know the little things,there is no dream job here.In all actuality you no longer live.You just merely exists.So there really is no such thing as life in prison.There is however death.Death of your hopes,death of your dreams,even the harsh reality of losing family members.This is not living,although you may have to settle or some how condition your mind for acceptance.This is not living! do not have life in prison,no I have death by incarceration.

TYRONE DEVON
(TREATED)
You strip me from my freedom,I admit I've did some wrongs.But why are you trying to keep me,away from home for way to long? If I accentu¬ate my culture,you misjudge me for being in a gang! But you are a part of a "union" an "institution" that's all the same.I maintain a positive mind frame,but in your brain I'm still the same.Just because you are stagnated in your growth,doesn't mean that I cant change.

How dare you define your morality,by the position you hold over me. Looking down at me with a frown,but seriously you're worse than me.I've committed crimes to get me here,but now I digress from such behaviors.On the other hand,you back hand your children and noisy neighbor’s.On a drunken tantrum,you mentally destroy whomever they want to be.By callin them fat,cunt,ugly,or stupid!You have no right to keep on judging me.

After 400 years,we are still in the same boat,no buses are used to transport.Teenager's ranging from 12-thru-18,giving death sentences,in a all white mans court.Sent to prison,the new plantation,to work for meaningless wages.All while keeping us locked down in cell's smaller than little dog cages.The department of corrections,no let me correct you.There is no correction in prison.More like the death of connections or destitute of colored men.How about the destruction of our children.

I admit there are men who still belong in prison.Because they fail to realize the prison within them.But there are some whom you locked up as kids,we have long since recompensed for the things that we've did. Society if you hear me,please don't be ignorant to the facts,that concealed behind these prison walls are many people who want to give back...
TYRONE DEVON

Terranze Sharp

Mr Terranze C Sharp #229098
KMCI
PO Box 282
Plymouth, WI 53073
My name is Terranze C Sharp. I was 15 years when I committed my offense. I am currently serving a life sentence with a parole eligibility of 20 years. Presently I am 35 years of age, I’ve served 19 years 6 months of the 20 year eligibility sentence. I am set to see the parole board in August 2010 of this year.
This is my first incarceration as an adult. I’ve never been to any juvenile institutions other than Children’s Detention Center. Also, my last conduct report was on 12-13-96.
Currently I’m enrolled in KMCI vocational masonry programs, which offer a masonry apprenticeship upon completion of the class in which I am presently working. I’ve actively participated in every program that has been made available to me .
Thankyou for your time and patience.
I’m looking to reintegrate myself back into society by asking the parole board to send me to a secure minimum. I understand this is my first parole hearing and they may want to evaluate me further due to the nature of my offense.

Hayes Jackson

Hayes E Jackson #253086
WSPF
PO Box 9900
Boscobel, WI 53805
  click here to read and sign his petition: http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/petition-for-a-second-1?source=c.em.cp&r_by=10992208

I was waived into adult court at the age of 16 years old. In 1994 I was convicted of A class B felony, I was sentenced to a total of 100 years with parole after 25 years. I was 17 years old when I was convicted.
Convicted by jury trial of PTAC OF FELONY MURDER, ARM ROBBERY,
AND ARM BURGLARY,
The type of person I was before my arrest, I was more of a
Follower. I was peer pressured into a lot of things by friends
I was always a good kid but got hooked up with the wrong
crowd. I was a giving person with a big heart, I was always
making people laugh even when I knew that they were going through a difficult time.
I have been incarcerated for 16 years.
While being in prison I have gotten my HSED. Stayed away from conduct reports, Looking at things alot different through the way the victim felt if it would had happened to someone I loved.
I have become A man who is patient, respectful, understanding trustworthy, Someone people would love to get to know if giving A chance. I see more deeply into things than many people who were not shackled by my inhibitions. I have learned alot to take back into the community and help the younger kids who are going down the path I ones went down.
Sincerely yours Truly,
Hayes E Jackson
click here to read and sign his petition:
 http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/petition-for-a-second-1?source=c.em.cp&r_by=10992208