MEET A few OF OUR CLIENTS!!

1/11/2023 - We won Derek's Compassionate Release motion and got his 25 year sentence reduced to 15 Years!!!

Name: Derek Carr, Reg. #21397-052

DOB: November 2, 1984
Race: Black

Raised: Brooklyn, NY

Tried:  Northern District of New York
Will live: Brooklyn, NY

Charges: 21 USC 846, 841(a)(1) & (b)(1)(A)-Conspiracy to Possess & Distribute Cocaine, Cocaine Base, Heroin; 18 USC 924(c)(1)(A)-Possession of a firearm; 21 USC 851-Trial Enhancement.

Trial or plea: Guilty Plea

Sentenced on: December 22, 2015
Served: 8 years.
Priors: First Time Offender.
Prison Conduct: Exemplary, no incident reports; extensive programs and consistent work history.
Clemency status:  Pending.
Release date: February 15, 2027.

Institution: FMC Lexington

P.O. Box 14500

Lexington, KY 40512

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health Concerns: None

According to Derek:

I am a nonviolent offender with a criminal history of 1 with a prior felony for possession of a control substance in which I received probation in that conviction. I have never done any state time before receiving this 25-year (300 months) sentence. Before going any further I would like to personally accept responsibility by admitting I did break the law. 

In my conspiracy case as the evidence supports, I came into the case during the last two months of the investigation, I never sold any drugs to any federal agents or informants, nor was I found with any drugs when arrested. I am overheard on wire taps the last two months of this case, talking to the only codefendant that I knew and dealt with about 80 grams of crack. Due to my lack of knowledge of the law, I didn't know I could contest the weight amount the government placed in my plea, and when I brought this up to my paid lawyer Mr. Battisti, he told me that there was no way for me to challenge this issue which was false. Had I gone to a "FATICO" hearing, the amounts I’m responsible for would have been proven by the evidence and I would have been able to get a sentence ranging between 7yrs-12yrs. 

My Federal Sentencing guidelines are 7yrs-9yrs but due to pleading to ALL the drugs in my case and being responsible for everyone's drugs. Although I’m far from a leader in this case, nothing other than a person who was collateral damage caught dealing with one person in a case that was ongoing during its last month’s, my mandatory minimum started at 10yrs. With a filing of an 851 motion for my prior felony which I did no state time but received probation, doubled it to 20 years mandatory. 

While incarcerated I have completed several programs; BRAVE program, received my Residential Wiring Certificate, Non-Residential Drug program certificate and I work UNICOR, which required me to learn how to use SAP software. I also self-studied business and the understanding of the "LAWS OF THE UNIVERSE" which I believe was the cause of my poor decision making that got me in prison. My over ambition and lack of patience wanting instant gratification took away from the harmony that should have been within. Moving forward outside of the education I gain, to work a job when I’m released. I wish to share my story to help prevent the next person from making the same mistake. I have written my book and movie script to my life to reach this goal. 

Name: Mackese W. Speight, Reg. #26084-001

DOB: June 19, 1978.
Race: Black.

Raised: Fairfield, AL.

Tried:  Northern District of Alabama.

Will live: Dolomite, AL.

Charges: 21 USC 371 Conspiracy to Commit Carjacking; 18 USC 924(c)(1) Brandishing a Firearm.

Trial or plea: Guilty Plea.

Sentenced on: Mary 24, 2007
Served: 15 years.
Priors: First Time Offender.
Prison Conduct: Exemplary, extensive programs and consistent work history.
Clemency status:  Pending.
Release date: January 9, 2065.

Institution: FCI Aliceville  P.O. Box 4000   Aliceville, AL 35442

Supporters: Family, Friends.
According to Mackese: I am a nonviolent offender who prior to the instant case, I have never been in trouble before. I made a very bad error in judgment and for that I am deeply remorseful. I never intended to hurt anyone, I was scared, and, in a situation, I knew I shouldn’t have been in, but it was too late.  I am seeking commutation of sentence because I am sorry for what I have done; what occurred with the crimes that were committed. I was stupid for ever being part of the incidents. I should have been smarter. Prior to these events, I never had more than a speeding or parking ticket. I lead a crime free life before getting into this trouble. I am not a violent person, nor am I a threat to society. I have never been in any situation in my life that would ever cause me to be a violent person. I truly understand that the nature of the crimes that were committed are violent, however, I am not a violent person, I made an immature and hasty decision to participate in the event that lead me here today. I sincerely regret ever getting involved in all of this.  I am only asking for a reduction in my sentence, not an immediate release. I don't deserve that because I did make a stupid decision to be part of a crime. I was so very wrong for being present and participating. If I wasn't driving the others around, then I wouldn't be sitting here today writing this response to this question.  I am seeking a second chance to reclaim my life. To be the daughter, mother, wife and law-abiding citizen I was meant to be. I am now a grandmother, and I have missed out on the lives of my own children. Please don't let me miss out on my grandson's life also. I take full responsibility for my actions. If this commutation is granted, I promise to be the best citizen of the USA that I can be and will provie to my community as well as America that I am worthy of receiving a second chance at life. 

As per the First Step Act, my sentence is 40 years longer than it would be if sentenced today.

Housing: If released on clemency, Ms. Speight has a loving and caring family who are committed to assisting her in a successful reentry to society. She also has many friends in the community who plan to assist her as well. She would return to Alabama to live with her two daughters and grandson.

Employment: Ms. Speight plans on seeking employment immediately upon release to be able to provide and care for her family. She has received a Paralegal Certificate from Blackstone Career Institute in February of 2021, and she graduated from Stratford Career Institute with an Accounting Certificate. Obtaining gainful employment should be no issue.

Name: Daniel J. Harrington, Reg. #51508-039

DOB: 9/15/1972
Race: White

Raised: Anaheim, CA

Tried:  Eastern District of Michigan

Will live: California

Charges: 21 USC § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B) -- Possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine

Trial or plea: Guilty Plea

Sentenced on: 9/21/2017
Served: 7 years
Priors: Misdemeanors

Prison Conduct: Extensive programs and consistent work history
Clemency status:  Pending
Release date: 1/29/2040

Institution:   FCI Thomson, P.O. Box 1002, Thomson, IL 61285

Supporters: Family, Friends.
According to Dan: I am seeking a commutation of sentence because the sentence I received is extreme and does not accomplish the purposes of sentencing under the circumstances.  Being away from home has caused much grief, not only on my wife and son, but on society.  My son requires constant attention due to emotional issues that are only exacerbated by the void of not having his father.  My wife has had to apply for assistance to support both of them.  Autistic children require routine, and his has been severely disrupted for 3 1/2 years now.  Being 2900 miles away from home does not allow my family to visit me.  I call home daily and this only seems to confuse him, not being able to understand why his father is not home.  Being home, having employment already waiting for me would enable me to provide for my family, so they are not a burden on society collecting assistance.  It would also allow me to give back to society by being  a productive, tax-paying citizen again.  Being home would prevent the vicious cycle of another child growing up without a father.  Also, being home and part of my son's life would give him structure and routine that are necessary to reverse the symptoms of his Autism.  

     Being home would also enable me to utilize the tools I have acquired while being incarcerated, by helping prevent others from having to go through what my family and I have gone through.  I plan on becoming heavily involved in drug awareness and prevention, both in the community and in jails, with at risk individuals.  I also seek commutation of sentence because it is unnecessary to keep me incarcerated for the remainder of my sentence.  I have employment waiting, and a community of supportive people, as indicated in the attached letters.  I have managed a considerable start to my rehabilitation and can and will succeed.

 Allah Hakim Ogunfunminire a/k/a Darrell Lamont Taylor (#04B0483), is seeking a commutation of his sentence from NY Governor Hochul.

Allah/Darrell is 51 years old and has been incarcerated for over 19 years. Prior to his incarceration he lived a fast life that was dominated by bad choices and irresponsible social behavior, which eventually led to his incarceration. As you will see from his words below, as well as the support from family & friends, he has worked hard to right the wrongs he created, and 19 years later, has become a better person than most who are not incarcerated.

Since his incarceration, he has pro-actively undergone what he describes as a “paradigm shift” in the way he thinks, and his view of living life more conducive to his family and the community as a whole. Anticipating becoming a law-abiding citizen and productive member in society, Allah/Darrell has made the most of the rehabilitative services available to him while in prison. He has earned a Vocational Trade as a certified Cement Block Mason, is also certified in Legal Research & Law Library Management. He has earned certificates in rehabilitative programs such as Alternatives to Violence Program (AVP), Aggression Replacement Training (ART), which he currently facilitates as an Inmate Program Associate (IPA), another program which he is certified in. After training as an IPA, he committed to a two-year contract to facilitate the Aggression Replacement Training program, where he would be eligible to earn a six-month Limited Credit Time Allowance (LCTA) against his sentence. He is also currently involved in voluntary programs like TAMAR which stands for Trauma, Addictions, Mental health And Recovery, and Youth Assistance Program (YAP), which arranges at-risk youth to meet with convicted felons who are trained to address the emerging antisocial and risky behaviors that are observed in many our youth in the community while assisting community crime prevention efforts through communicating the consequences of criminal behavior, with the youth. He is also the President of the Inmate Liaison Committee (ILC), which provides effective communication between inmates and the administration.

Allah/Darrell began his prison term in maximum security prison, doing stretches at Five Points, Attica, Southport, Clinton, Upstate, Great Meadow, Wende & Green Haven. Due to his exemplary efforts and conduct his security status was lowered and he now is at Wyoming Correctional Facility and is housed in the Earned Housing Unit (Honor Dorm) as he continues to make strides to better himself and prepare himself for freedom.

Upon his freedom, he seeks to rejoin The Laborer's International Union, Local #435 and work in the construction industry, attend classes for Culinary Arts in hopes of becoming a certified Chef and one day owning his own restaurants and give job opportunities to community members. He also desires to use the social skills he has developed to speak to at-risk youth within the community, help them understand that institutional life inside prison is not something to be considered as a part of their future and provide them with tools to make positive choices.

In addition to his personal growth while in prison, his family has been unconditional with their love and support of him and his new outlook on life. He is a new Grandfather and looks forward to creating memories and sharing milestones with his family and live in a productive and contributive manner.

Clemency is an extraordinary relief that only the Office of the Governor has the power to grant via The Executive Clemency Bureau. Allah/Darrell meets the requirements to receive such relief, and as a model prisoner, it is his hope to have his sentence commuted.

Name: Jody Lynn Hughlette, Reg. #17400-030.

DOB: March 23, 1970.
Race: White.

Raised: Fort Dodge, Iowa.

Tried:  Southern District of Iowa.

Will live: Smiths Grove, Kentucky.

Charges: 21 USC 841(a)(1) & (b)(1)(A) Conspiracy to distribute Methamphetamine,

Trial or plea: Guilty Plea.

Sentenced on: September 11, 2017.
Served: 7 years.
Priors: Misdemeanors.
Prison Conduct: Exemplary, extensive programs and consistent work history.
Clemency status:  Pending.
Release date: April 2, 2035.

Institution: FCI Pekin-Camp

Supporters: Family, Friends.
According to Jody:  I'm currently 53 years old and have done almost 6-1/2 years of a 22 year non violent drug sentence.  I was charged with conspiracy of 500 grams of mixture of meth.  I plead guilty to a plea agreement in which I thought I'd receive 10 years, but in the end the Judge sentenced me to 22 years.

          In the 6-1/2 years I've been incarcerated, I have NEVER received one disciplinary infraction of any kind.  I have completed over 30 classes including a canine training program and a vocational program in Horticulture, which is a college course.  I am a low pattern risk score and a minimum custody score.  I recently came to Pekin Camp via furlough on my own, and traveled by bus.  I have completed all of my need requirements except RDAP, which I will not be able to complete until I am 3 years to discharge due to a wait list for the course.  I am trying to help get a dog program started here in Pekin as there are no jobs available for many of us.  I stay busy doing my workbook through Michael Santos, and I also have a profile that can be viewed at PrisonProfessorsTalent.com. 

     I take full accountability for why I am here, as I made many bad choices and hurt many people by selling drugs, but I have learned that I want to be a productive person.  I am ready to work hard and earn my freedom through my actions.

     Regardless of whether I am chosen to receive Clemency I will go home someday, and I will be a good person who works hard and will live my best life.  I have learned that drugs are not what I want to define my life.  Before I was arrested I had gotten my Associates Degree in Veterinary Technology and I plan on getting back into this field when I am released. I just want the second chance, the opportunity to show that I can contribute to society in a positive manner and live a good life. 

     I have a solid release plan and have support of my family and friends.  Please consider me for this second chance?  I want an opportunity to support myself and contribute to society.  While I am incarcerated, I feel I am a burden to my family and society because they have to support me.  Please give me the chance to prove I can be a productive member of society.

     Thank you for your time and consideration.

Name: Telasa Clark, Reg. #27064-177

DOB: September 26, 1967
Race: Black

Raised: Fort Worth, TX

Tried:  Southern District of Texas

Will live: Texas

Charges: 18 USC 2113(A) & 2 - Bank Robbery & Aiding & Abetting; 18 USC 924(c)(1(A)(i) & 2 - Used & Carried a firearm during and in relation to a crime of  violence & Aiding & Abetting.

Trial or plea: Guilty Plea.

Sentenced on: 4/4/2002
Served: 21 years
Priors: None.
Prison Conduct: Exemplary, extensive programs and consistent work history.
Clemency status:  Pending.
Release date: 9/16/2049

Institution: FCI El Reno, OK

Supporters: Family, Friends.
According to Telasa:  I am seeking a second chance to reclaim my life. To be the father, husband, and law abiding citizen I was meant to be. I have 4 adult children whose lives I have missed out on because I have been incarcerated for over 20 years. Not only have I been punished but so have my children.  I have paid my debt to society for the last 20 years. I have been rehabilitated as I have completed numerous courses for rehabilitation, as well as maintained an excellent work record.  I have numerous letters and UNICOR work reports that show I would be an asset to the community.

     I have a strong support system and my family and friends are willing to give me a place to live, employment assistance and financial assistance once I am released.

     I made a poor decision to go into the bank with my co-defendants with a weapon and demand money.  I don't know what I was thinking at the time and should have been smarter in my decision making.  I am truly remorseful for my actions and choices that landed me this crazy 50 year sentence as a first time offender.

     Thank you for reading.

Name: Deon Gantt, #06810-028

DOB: December 9, 1975 - Chicago, IL

Race: Black

Raised: Chicago, IL

Tried:  Southern District of Indiana
Will live: Chicago, IL
Charges: 21 USC 841(a)(1) and 846 - Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute Meth.

Sentenced on: April 16, 2003
Priors: Minor Infractions

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending –  C294740
Release date: January 15, 2027

Institution: FCI Ray Brook

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: 

· Completed many courses, College Graduate

According to Deon:    

I never thought in my lifetime that I would be sitting in a prison cell writing to the highest position in our country; seeking some relief of my past actions. But here I sit searching my brain for the right words in hopes of piquing your curiosity as to, who is this man seeking compassion? My name is Deon Terell Gantt. I am a 45-year-old father and grandfather who has been incarcerated for the past 19 years. I pled guilty to a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams of methamphetamine in 2002. On April 16, 2003, I was sentenced to 360 months to the Federal Bureau of Prisons; 5 years supervised release.

Since my incarceration, my life and my view on life, has taken a drastic turn. In the beginning of my incarceration, I would say I was numb; trying to cope with the fact that I had been sentenced to a term longer than I had been in existence. Trying to make sense of it at that time left me perplexed. After about 3 years of just doing time, I came to the realization that I wanted more for my life than just sitting in prison. I quickly started gravitating towards older men whom carried themselves differently than the masses of inmates. I could see these men had used and continued to use their time wisely and constructively. On June 03, 2005, I made the decision that I would not leave prison the same person as I entered. No more lies, no more cheating, no more deceiving.

My truth is, I was a willing participant in a conspiracy to bring drugs to the state of Indiana. At the time I came to Indiana, I knew what I was doing was wrong and there's no justification for my actions. I see how my behavior then caused pain to that community. I've worked long and hard to educate myself; that when allotted the opportunity I can make a speedy reparation to my community and country as a whole. Since 2005, I have been a part of a brotherhood here in prison who try to offer solutions to inmates who want to change their lives for the better. I have volunteered as a tutor for inmates needing help obtaining their GED's. I have been a spiritual leader for over a decade at various institutions. 

It is my goal to use all the tools that Indiana State University provided to me as well as the instructions Almighty God has given to the human family to help build and not destroy my community. I have a 17-year work history here in the Bureau of Prisons. I will continue my working habit upon release; demonstrating that I can function and contribute in my community and country. I ask that you take a close look at my institution record and consider the letters from those who know me well. As a 45-year-old man, I see life through different lenses than I did at 25. I am a living testament that the system of rehabilitation does work if one wants it. I now ask you to use your power in giving me a second chance at life.

Name: Jamal D. Barnes, # 40212-037 

DOB: December 9, 1977 - Norfolk, VA

Race: Black

Raised: Norfolk, VA

Tried:  Plead Guilty - District of Maryland
Will live: Baltimore, Maryland
Charges: Aiding & Abetting Carjacking

Sentenced on: June 13, 2003
Priors: Yes, a few mistakes.

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending –  C297412
Release date: None

Institution: USP Victorville

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: 

· Completed many courses.

According to Jamal:  

     I am seeking commutation of sentence because I am sorry for what I have done; what occurred with the crimes that were committed.  I was stupid for ever being part of the incidents.  I should have been smarter.  I truly understand that the nature of the crimes that were committed are violent; I made an immature and hasty decision to participate in the event that lead me here today.  I sincerely regret getting involved in all of this.

     I am seeking a second chance to reclaim my life.  To be the son, father, husband and law abiding citizen I was meant to be.  I take full responsibility for my actions and if this commutation is granted, I promise to be the best citizen I can be and will prove to my community as well as America that I am worthy of receiving a second chance at life.  I am hopeful that President Biden would find me worthy of that second chance.  I was a very young and immature young man when I entered the system.  I had no guidance and made poor choices because of that.

       If second looks were widespread and needed when our incarceration rates were low, they are needed even more now in the age of COVID-19, mass incarceration and overcriminalization. I am requesting a second chance to reclaim my life. I have a family that I love and desperately miss, and they love me and care for me also. They are ready and willing to support me with a successful reentry. 

      Thank you for your time and consideration.

Name: Craig V. Sizer, # 10406-104

DOB: June 24, 1968, Rochester, NY

Race: Black

Raised: Rochester, NY

Tried:  Plead Guilty - Southern District of Florida
Will live: Florida
Charges: 18 USC 1349 - Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud

Sentenced on: July 25, 2017

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending –  C297412
Release date: 11/9/2030

Institution: FCI Coleman Low

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: 

· Completed many courses.

According to Craig:  

     As co-founder of Sanomedics, Inc., we developed and patented the first non-contact, clinically validated thermometer: "Caregiver Thermometer." This product is still being sold to institutional (hospital, medical care facilities & the government) users. The corporation also attempted to develop a non-contact thermometer for home use, but could never get the production cost low enough to impact the consumer market.  Sanomedics was also affected when our Chinese manufacturer took over our technology and entered the market at a lower price.  My responsibility was to raise venture capital. I sold founder's stock through a brokerage firm.  The brokerage firm overstated the company's potential and success. I benefitted from these sales in the amount of $1.5 million.  I left the corporation when the company abandoned a merger opportunity that would have put it in a stronger financial position and diversified it's product lines. Seven months after I left Sanomedics, the President and CFO sold the "Caregiver Thermometer" and pocketed the proceeds.  This essentially left Sanomedics a shell with no marketable products.  As co-founder I was convicted of wire fraud pursuant to the sale of my founder's stock.  When Sanomedics went bankrupt, I was the largest stockholder and suffered the greatest loss.

     I seek a reduction in my sentence because I believe I can be a true value to society.  I recognize that my participation in Sanomedics caused others to lose money, and for that I am deeply remorseful. I should have been more diligent and a better steward of the investors' assets.  I have been a work-in-progress most of my life.  I have suffered from drug addiction and the related criminal activities. Finally, finding a way to use my strengths in a positive way, then getting involved with a failing enterprise.

     Prison has given me a chance to suffer and learn what I can do to improve life for myself and others. A "come to Jesus" revelation of my skills and how they can be used in service occurred when I took a horticulture course that was offered through the University of Florida. I took it to help fill the time during the day.  What I discovered is that I would never be a gardner, but with my skillset, I could help develop new products to deal with the pollution of the public water system.  How horticulture could be used to address pest control, water use, water filtration, environmental enhancement, and, with my technology background, an answer to air and water purification on a local and national level.

     Thank you.

Name: Valerie Flores, #  11317-090  

DOB: November 24, 1992 - Chicago IL

Race: Hispanic

Raised: Chicago, IL

Tried:  Plead Guilty - Western District of Wisconsin
Will live: Merrill, Wisconsin
Charges: 21 USC 841(a)(1) Possession with intent to distribute 100 kilos of marijuana.

Sentenced on: October 5, 2018
Priors: Yes, prior drug felony.

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending –   C305904  
Release date: September 5, 2026

Institution: FCI  Waseca, MN

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: 

· Completed many courses. Now in PAWS program.

According to Valerie:  

     A  commutation of sentence is the chance for me to begin my new life on the right path to become the woman I know I can be.  I miss my family and my family misses me dearly.  I feel like I have missed out on the most important moments of their lives.  My brothers have children I haven’t even  met yet. There is no easy way to convince you, Mr. President, into granting my clemency.  But please allow me to tell you why you should consider releasing me and allowing me the opportunity to live and create a family of my own before it’s too late. There is no sugar coating it. I am a 30-year-old woman who has spent a total of 8 ½ years within the prison system in the past 10 years.  That’s a long time.  5 ½ years is on this marijuana case alone.

     I want you to know that I did not waste my time during my incarceration.  I have taken my punishment very seriously and I have acquired skills that I will be able to use as a career, by taking advantage of what the prison has to offer.  I enrolled in the building/maintenance and construction vocational program that was a 2-year course offered to prisoners through Moraine Park Technical College.  It was a hands-on experience. I learned blueprint reading, residential wiring, plumbing, building the bones to a house, roofing, and obtained my degree in the same.  I learned how to trouble-shoot and be a good team player. By the end of the course, we built a miniature house.

     Alongside this program, I took 4 extra-curricular classes.  Those were: Occupational Success Strategies, Occupational Math, Occupational Workplace Success, and Occupational Communication Skills. With these courses I earned 1 to 2 college credits per class.  After I graduated, I worked directly at that institution. I helped drill holes in concrete, run conduit, installed wires for phones and Wi-Fi. Those were just some of the things we did.

Name: Maurice NaVarro Brooks, #06027-033

DOB: March 31, 1976, Louisville, KY

Race: Black

Raised: Louisville, KY

Tried:  Guilty at Trial, Western District of Kentucky
Will live: Kentucky
Charges: 18 USC 2113(a) & (d) Bank Robbery; 18 USC 924(c) Use of Firearm.

Sentenced on: July 6, 1998
Priors: Yes, prior drug charge.

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending –    C296152   
Release date: July 4, 2160!

Institution: FCI  Manchester

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: 

· Completed many courses.

According to Varo:  

     During the time of my crime, I was young, abusing drugs and running the streets lost as a child.  I had no direction; no love for self, but I am no murderer nor am I a terrorist.  I had no father, my mother worked two jobs.  My father was murdered when I was in Junior High. It was a rough time for me and I abused drugs and alcohol.  I lived and slept from house to house.  I was surviving as best as I could.

     Fortunately, I can say I have been alcohol free for over 18 years, and drug free a little longer.  I came into prison as a child but today I am a man.  A man that I am proud of; a man who not only I respect, but a man my peers and staff respect as well.

     During my incarceration, I have made turning my life around a priority. More importantly, I am fully engaged in my children and grandchildren’s lives. My family and friends have supported and encouraged me over the years which gives me strength to preserver. Having served nearly 27 years on a 226-year sentence, I pray that this amount of time reflects the seriousness of the crimes that I have committed, and at the same time, show my determination to pay my debt to society through my personal transformation, educational and vocational achievements. I’ve grown and am respectful and move with respect.

Nothing about prison is easy. Waking up every day to pursue a positive path in prison is no easy task. Faith and prayer help me accomplish this. I work every day and continue to maintain excellent conduct. I have held the same job now for several years. The most I’ve ever worked on the streets was a few months.

I don’t look at life today as I did when I was 19-20 years old. 

     Prison is a very humbling teacher. I am sorry for the pain and emotional pain I caused my victims. I pray that the mistake I made as a young man will not be held against me for my natural life.

Name: Darry Wayne Hanna, #14555-171

DOB: July 1, 1980, Florence, SC

Race: White

Raised: Florence, SC

Tried:  Guilty at Trial, District of South Carolina
Will live: South Carolina
Charges: 18 USC 1341and 2-Wire Fraud;  18 USC 1343 and 2-Mail Fraud; 18 USC 1349-Conspiracy to Commit Fraud

Sentenced on: May 3, 2007
Priors: None

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending –    C296152   
Release date: May 24, 2381!

Institution: FCI  Gilmer

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: 

· Completed many courses.

According to Darry:  

I am seeking clemency on each of the charges in which I was convicted of. I was 23 years old at the time of my initial arrest. My brother's wife was shot and killed. I had no involvement in this crime whatsoever.  I along with my brother was arrested and charged with murder. I proceeded to trial and was acquitted of that crime. 

     I was later arrested and charged in federal court with various noon-violent crimes related to the crimes noted above. My brother committed suicide during the pretrial phase of this case. I proceeded to trial and was convicted of  conspiracy  to  commit  mail  and  wire  fraud,  in  violation  of  18  U.S.C.  § 1349; 19 counts of  mail  fraud,  in  violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1341; and two counts of wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343.  The district court sentenced me to 440 years of imprisonment.

     I never committed any of these crimes. I fully understand that when someone is seeking clemency they should be accepting responsibility for the crime and seeking mercy. I am not someone sitting in prison unwilling to accept responsibility for their crime. However, I am not guilty and sometimes the jury gets things wrong. My case is one of them. One jury found me not guilty of the crimes, only to be charged in federal court and in essence have a second murder trial tied to the counts mentioned above, I was sentenced to the statutory maximum on each count and each sentence was to run consecutively to get to the 440 year term. I was sentenced in federal court on paper for wire fraud and mail fraud but in reality I was sentenced for a murder that I had nothing to do with. A murder that I was aquitted for that I did not commit. The government had called 5 witnesses that were jail house informant's that testified that I told them that I was involved in this crime. None of it was true. 

     Thank you for taking the time to read about my case.

Name: Francisco "Tito" GArza, #10356-078

DOB: 9/30/1974-Pensacola Florida

Race: Hispanic

Raised: Florida

Tried:  Guilty at Trial, Eastern District of Texas
Will live: Texas
Charges: 18 USC841 & 846 -- Conspiracy to Distribute or Dispense, or Possess with Intent to Distribute or Dispense methylenedioxymethamphetamine (“MDMA” or “Ecstasy”), methamphetamine, cocaine, and gamma hydroxybutyrate (“GHB”).

Sentenced on: September 2004
Priors: Few minors

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending   
Release date: December 19, 2028

Institution: FCI  El Reno

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: Completed many courses.

According to Tito:  

    I am seeking clemency with the hope that the President will consider the steps that I have taken to become a better person since my incarceration, as well as taking full responsibility for my irrational and irresponsible actions that led me to be where I am today.  I deeply regret those decisions and feel I am deserving of a second chance to reclaim my life.  I have been incarcerated for the last 18 years, and I am not the person I was at the age of 28, in 2003.  I am a 47 year old man, who values his freedom.

   There are no excuses for the selfish decisions I made to engage in the crimes I did, and I make none. Since my incarceration I have had the opportunity to look at my life and the choices I made and there  is no doubt that I am no longer that person.  I have family that I love and care for and am dedicated to never making those choices that I made long ago, ever again.  I have tremendous respect for the law and my freedom and will do nothing to ever jeopardize that again.

   Over the last 20 years of my incarceration, I have had the time to both reflect on my mistakes and to work on making myself a better human being.  I see things a lot differently today than I did 18 years ago.  I understand the dangers of my crime, and the immense pain, agony and sorrow it has caused. If given a second chance at life, I wouldn't ever become involved in any type of crime ever again.

     In terms of my own personal growth, I have used my time in prison productively to better myself, help other inmates, and developed skills that would help me readjust to life outside if I'm released.  I was 28 years old at sentencing, and I knew coming into prison that I needed to grow and educate myself to become a better man for society.  My past should not define who I am today, especially given my  rehabilitation.  I am embarrassed for what I've put my family through, and want to make things right.

     Thank you.

Name: Steven Jacob Joseph, #83944-083

DOB: 12/11/79, Port Au Prince, Haiti

Race: Haitian

Raised: Port Au Prince, Haiti

Tried:  Eastern District of Virginia
Will live: In Georgia if not deported to Haiti
Charges: 21 USC 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A and 846 - Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine (5 kilos or more) and heroin (1 kilo or more)

Sentenced on: May 27, 2015
Priors: Few minors

Prison Conduct: Exemplary
Clemency status:  Pending   
Release date: 11/20/2043

Institution: FCI  Ray Brook

Supporters: Family, Friends, Lisa Jacobi.
Health issues: None

Accomplishments: Completed many courses.

According to Steven:  

   My request for seeking a commutation of sentence rests on many reasons.  I acknowledge that I made some very poor choices, and as a result, I was sentenced to 35 years in prison for a nonviolent drug offense.  I am a first time federal offender who has a new found respect for the law, life and freedom.  Today I realize just how valuable those three things are.  My request for clemency is my request for a second chance at a "real and meaningful period of adult life."  

   As my sentence stands today, I have come to prison at the age of 32 and leave in my late 60's. My request is one of mercy and compassion.  While I recognize that there must be punishment for those who commit serious crimes, I submit that a sentence of 35 years, as a nonviolent offender, is far above who commit serious crimes, I submit that a sentence of 35 years, as a nonviolent offender, is far above a punishment that is sufficient, and greater than necessary to achieve the goals of sentencing.

   I am legally married to my wife Sandra Joseph, who is an American Citizen. We have two children; my oldest son Seth Civil Joseph who is 22 now, and my daughter Sadie Joseph who is 16.  Both still need their father in their life, and while I do all I can from prison, it's not the same as being there for them.  I love my family dearly, and every day away from my family is a punishment in an of itself.  My family, and the family structure are priorities in my life. They are my motivation to push forward, and to never again make poor decisions. Prison has a way of making a person realize what is most important, and that is being a father my children can be proud of, and a husband that my wife can count on.  My prayer for mercy is one that gives me a second chance to be reunited with my family.

   I have accepted the fact that I will likely be deported to Haiti, but I also know that my wife and children will be able to visit with me and there will be an opportunity to fix some of the things I have broken.

Name: Ethan “Malu” Motta, Reg. #95609-022

DOB: January 31, 1969.
Race: Native Hawaiian.

Raised: Wahiawa, HI

Tried:  District of Hawaii.

Will live: Hawaii.

Charges: 18 USC 1962(c) & (d); 18 USC 1955; 18 USC 2; 18 USC 1959(a)(1) & (2); 18 USC 1959(a)(5) & (2)..

Trial or plea: Went to Trial.

Sentenced on: November 30, 2009

Sentence Received: LIFE +2
Served: 19 years.
Priors: NONE - First Time Offender.
Prison Conduct: Exemplary, extensive programs and consistent work history.
Clemency status:  Pending.
Release date: January 9, 2065.

Institution: FCI Williamsburg, P.O. Box 340, Salters, SC 29590

Supporters:  Family, Friends, Council Members, etc.
According to Malu: 

I am seeking clemency with the hope that the President would consider the steps I have taken 

to become a better person since my incarceration, as well as taking full responsibility for my  irrational and irresponsible decisions that led me to where I am today. I deeply regret those  decisions and feel I am deserving of a second chance to reclaim my life. There are no excuses  for the selfish decisions I made to engage in the crimes I did, and I make none. Since my  incarceration I have had the opportunity to look at my life and the choices I made and there is  no doubt that I am no longer that person. I have family that I love and care for and am dedicated  to never make those choices that I made long ago, ever again. I have tremendous respect for  the law and my freedom and will do nothing to ever jeopardize that again. I would like to shed  light on my personal transformation journey that began 19 years ago when I made up my mind to do all I can to become a better human being and show God, myself, my family and others that I can be the leader and positive role model that so many believe I can be.  As a first-time offender with no prior criminal history, it is my  sincere hope that my transformation and redeeming qualities will serve as testimony of who I  have become along with my desire and commitment to serve my community, especially the  troubled youth. I have a strong desire to help these young people make good choices and live  happy and healthy lives. I humbly ask to be granted clemency so  

that I may use my God given talents to be a servant leader for my family, my home, my community and the people of Hawaii. As people mature with age, recidivism decreases and I will only make good solid choices and be the role model and mentor within my community, that I should have been long ago.   I have endeavored to right the wrong and change my life around by participating in numerous rehabilitative & reintegration programs, and by serving as a positive role model & mentor to thousands of fellow inmates in need of guidance and mentor ship. Since day one of my incarceration, I have made it a point to serve as a positive Role Model & Mentor to thousands of fellow inmates in need of guidance and mentorship.   I have made it a point to be a better Father, Son, Spouse, Brother, and Friend and above all, have strived to become a productive member of society and the best human being I can possibly be.

As a first-time offender, I pray for a second chance to utilize my talents and redeeming qualities and promise to turn this tragedy into something positive.  I may not be able to bring back the lives of those who were lost, but my story will go a long way toward helping to save the lives of others and empowering today’s at-risk youth to stay on the right path.  It should be noted my Acts of Heroism on three different occasions that prevented the death of a female corrections officer and her unborn baby; and saved the lives of 4 Hawaii County Police Officers and their family members, not to mention the lives of numerous Hawaii County Police Officers who were being targeted in a mass murder suicide plot.  For these acts alone I would humbly request that my sentence be reduced from LIFE, to one more suitable. This is my humble request.

I have completed more than 2500 hours of programming & rehabilitative programs and have earned hundreds of program certificates, including safety certificates as I was a recycling specialist for two years. I put in more than 2000 hours in the Safety Department. I have volunteered thousands of hours as a tutor, role model, mentor and motivational speaker and is currently a volunteer at the Williamsburg "suicide watch" program where I mentor and shadow inmates contemplating suicide. It is also worth noting that I am currently enrolled in the "Building Trades & Construction Management" course offered as a pilot program by Williamsburg Tech University and am proud to announce that I am one of five inmates that will soon be graduating from the program in December 2023! Lastly, I was recently hired by the recreation department as the new "Sports Commissioner" overseeing all sporting activities on the entire prison complex and I look forward to improving and implementing new sports programs that will help ensure a better quality of life for the inmate population.

Housing: If released on clemency, I will be living on the Big Island of Hawaii at my mother's home in a small tight knit Native-Hawaiian Homestead community of Keaukaha. I will be caring for my 92-year-old mother who lives alone and needs assistance.

Employment: o help with monthly bills, etc., I will be employed full time as an Assistant Manager at  Palekana Permits, handling and expediting building & planning permits within the county of Hawaii. I also have two other offers for employment with Iron Workers Stabilization Fund as well as iSave Energy Solutions. So, there will be no issue with securing gainful employment as well as medical insurance.

I also plan and make a priority to be involved in every aspect of my children's lives and even though all four of them have reached adulthood since my time away, I will do everything as a parent to support them in their quest to reach their career goals.

Lastly, I will be volunteering as a youth basketball coach at the community gym and have already made arrangements with several non-profit groups to fulfill my calling as a mentor and role model for at risk children looking for positive guidance and inspiration in their lives.