What has been the most meaningful experience/life lesson you have learned up to this point that you would pass on to others who are about to experience reentry?

There are going to be a ton of things that happen that you aren’t prepared for. Take it a day at a time and be patient with yourself – don’t compare yourself to others.

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What has been the most shocking thing you've experienced so far in reentry?

The amount of homelessness and poverty – it seems more out of control than when I first went in. Same with mental illness. I hadn’t given it a lot of thought before, but now that I’m out it’s very clear and present. There’s also a lot of division between people, especially with politics – no one is really working through issues and communicating.

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What has been your favorite experience in reentry?

Being with my wife and new baby!

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When were you released?

Feb 5th, 2020

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What was the county of your offense and what was the county of your release?

I was convicted in LA county and released in Riverside county

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What have you been doing since your release? 

My wife and I had our first kid, AJ (Anthony Josiah) in March! I have to keep reminding myself to savor all these moments and really enjoy them while they are here.

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I started an internship in February as a peer support counselor at a recovery center. I’m working to become a fully certified, full time counselor.

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I’ve also been doing volunteer work with Operation New Hope, working with at risk youth. I usually help put on events, and I interact with youth as a mentor.

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I’ve also been building up my connections with my family. Unfortunately I couldn’t spend Christmas with them because of COVID, but I’m keeping a positive outlook and trying to find silver linings.

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Knowing what you know today, what advice would you give to someone?

Really cherish relationships – we tend to get busy and forget how much people matter in our lives. I call people and try to keep strong connections. Keep moving forward and spread your wings.

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What are you planning to do post-pandemic?

I want to go on a western US road trip and see Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Utah

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