Antonio, 47

Most of my family, friends and kids turned their backs on me. I felt abandoned. I decided to put my trust in God. I made a conscious decision not to let my wrongful conviction define me.

Incarcerated: 18 years

Housed: Wabash Valley Correctional Facility, Indiana

I was reading and comprehending at a second grade level and I had no money to hire a lawyer. All I had left was what was instilled in me by the Most High. After being wrongfully convicted of a crime I did not commit, I felt my reputation as a man of God was tarnished. Most of my family, friends and kids turned their backs on me. I felt abandoned. I decided to put my trust in God. I made a conscious decision not to let my wrongful conviction define me. As a result, I enrolled and attained my high school diploma, and completed every educational and rehabilitative programs prison had to offer. I self-taught myself the law by reading and studying case laws, the rules of evidence, and the state and federal constitutions. I went on to represent myself in my case. I help other offenders on their cases, and mentor other inmates who suffer from mental illness and behavioral issues. Until God opens those doors, I will continue being a positive role model, help others and serve the Most High.