At the age of 18 my brother, Steven Bernal, was 2 weeks away from joining the United States Marine Corps. Joining the Marines was something he dreamt of doing from the time he was able to speak clearly. His dreams were cut short when he was falsely convicted of a crime he did not commit (armed robbery) and at the height of the harsh sentencing laws in 90’s and early 00’s Steven was affected like many of our black and brown youth with harsh lengthy sentencing. Recently my brother had his initial parole suitability after serving about 2/3 of his sentence and was denied an opportunity to be released to his loved ones. We are urging our elected officials to take another look at his case and ultimately our goal is to see Steven released and become a contributing member of society which is his goal.  The committing crime did not involve murder yet due to enhancements which is what he’s serving now has kept him in prison for a time period longer than what the original sentence for the crime would have been. Thank you for your support and my prayers are that your signatures will apply the pressure needed that will help a man who is now 38 years old that has been in prison since 18 come home.. Free Steven!