Angel DeJesus was a teenager when he was sentenced to life without parole. In 2020, Virginia ended juvenile life without parole sentences. Two years later, Angel received a conditional pardon from Gov. Northam. and was released on January 2022.
Despite thinking that he would spend the rest of his life behind bars, he made the most out of his incarceration.
He completed his GED, acquired more than 30 certificates, and participated in several educational programs, such as cognitive skill building, anger management, and tutor training.
There's no greater joy than reuniting with family and enjoying the simple things in life as a free man.
He got to experience many firsts in a long time — first time eating a real grilled cheese, go out for dinner, and go for a hike by the river. Since his release, Angel has continued to be an advocate for prison reform by sharing his own story of transformation.
He testified at the Virginia General Assembly to support the Second Look legislation. He has also spoken at various webinars, community events, and radio interviews.
And now, Angel works for Boys to Men Mentoring Virginia, a mentoring program that provides mentors and role models to young boys as they transition into adulthood.
With Boys to Men, Angel is able to build relationships with young people and to show them that the choices they make matter, and that if they work towards a better version of themselves, no matter where they started, they can have a positive impact on communities.
