My name is Shawn Souva, and I came to prison at the age of twenty with a sentence of life without parole. Now, twenty-five years later, I can honestly say I am no longer that same person I was back then. I have grown, matured, and changed in ways I could not have imagined at that time.

This transformation did not occur by chance, nor is it simply the result of the passage of time in incarceration. Accountability and responsibility begin with choice. My personal growth has been the outcome of a slow, deliberate, and intentional process that I chose to undertake. Although it took me years to fully confront this truth, I now understand the depth of harm my actions caused to others. I have accepted responsibility for how I choose to live now and who I choose to be. My self-development began with earning an Associate of Science degree in Small Business Management from Adams State University. From there, I became involved in peer-led mentor programs and continued to grow and develop through working with others. Today, I work as a Peer Recovery Coach, supported by my emotional support dog, Honey.

I do not believe that every individual serving a life without parole sentence should automatically be afforded the opportunity to return home. However, I do believe that there are a number of individuals who have consistently demonstrated genuine accountability, responsibility, and sustained personal growth; and that these individuals should have the opportunity to earn their freedom. The potential expansion of HB-21 would provide me and others like me, who have engaged in long-term, deliberate self-development to be considered for that opportunity. Ultimately, this opportunity would allow those who have demonstrated lasting change to transition from long-term occupancy within the prison system to becoming contributing members of society. It would offer us the chance to give back, support others, and live responsibly, rather than remaining confined to a role that no longer reflects who we have become.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Shawn