Alan Lama has served 21 years of a "Life Without the Possibility of Parole" sentence, for the 2003 murder and conspiracy to commit murder of Mr. James Quinn. I have known Alan for more than 10 years, have been married to him since July 2016 and, like all other family members, have been able to observe his positive development firsthand. I know that no day goes by that he is not remorseful. Alan takes full responsibility for his actions in the past and is continuing his hard work to improve himself. The California Department of Corrections has provided many tools, self-help classes and programs for inmates. Although Alan has no prospects for a life outside of prison because of his sentence, he has taken every opportunity to improve, grow and rehabilitate. Alan has participated in self-help groups including: Victims Awareness, Lifer's Support, SAR, Anger Management and Kid Cat. He has also volunteered to facilitate many of the groups and in an effort to help others achieve and build the skill sets necessary to be productive members of society upon their release.
Alan has been working hard to continue his education and is nearing completion of the course work to earn Associate Degrees in both psychology and business. Alan's goal is to earn Bachelor degrees in both fields.
Alan has learned to discipline himself and to respectful towards others and has remained disciplinary free for more than 16 years. Alan has worked for several years as Captain's Clerk at Mule Creek State Prison, and in his Laudatory Chrono the Captain describes Alan Lama: (Quote) "I have seen the growth and his ability to be a responsible and a dependable person in all facets of his assigned duties. Lama exhibits an exemplary work ethic in whatever undertaking he is involved in and performs his assigned duties effectively, diligently and in a timely manner."
Since August 2017, Alan has been a volunteer participant in the Paws for Life Program, which has helped him continue to develop positively. He has been the program leader, overseeing the day-to-day operations and training of dogs and volunteer trainers, as well as training a dog himself. Alan commits his time and efforts into training service dogs for the benefit of US military veterans diagnosed with PTSD, and firefighters from Los Angeles in need of emotional support. His commitment to extensive education as a "Trainer" and dedication in preparing the dogs for either Canine Good Citizenship certification or Service Dog qualification, represents his genuine effort to give back to the community and engage with society in a meaningful manner. In April 2022, Alan voluntarily transferred from Mule Creek State Prison to California Medical Facility to establish the Paws for Life's Service Dog Training Program at that facility.
In an effort to further assist the dogs and the program, with the support of family and friends, Alan completed a corresponded course through the Startford Career Institution in the field of Veterinary Associate. He received his diploma with honors in May 2019 and takes care of the health and well-being of all dogs.
We applied to Gov. Newsom for commutation of Alan Lama's sentence in 2019 and still hope for consideration. Alan has a complete post commutation and post parole plan - with his knowledge in dog training and veterinary assistance he should be readily able to find employment in either field in a short period of time. Alan is not only deeply remorseful, but he is also a loving and caring husband, son, father and grandfather. Alan has the full support of his family and friends and will have their continued support if released. This support will permit a smooth transition and provide consistent encouragement for his success. We will offer Alan unlimited assistance to ensure his positive transition back into society.