My name is Doiakah Gray, but to my friends and family I’m known as “Doc” .

On March 7,1996 I was arrested for a homicide that occurred in 1994, when I was a 17 year old  juvenile.

In April 1998, I was convicted and sentenced to an extended term sentence of 80 years. At the age of 20, I was sent to the notorious maximum prison, Stateville.

During my almost 20 years at stateville and 3years at Hill, I worked on changing my life and my mindset. On January 1,2002, I quit smoking cigarettes,drinking alcohol, and gave my life to Jesus Christ.

I received my G.E.D ; then a certificate in paralegal studies; followed by an associate degree in paralegal studies.

I became a registered barber ;a master shingle applicator; a shingle quality specialist; a counselor of religious education; a licensed minister, and 10 years an ordained minister.

I have earned 4 associates degrees; a bachelor degree in Bible studies; a master degree in Bible Theology; and a Doctorate in Biblical studies. In addition, I have earned over 200 biblical certificates and diplomas. As well as over 15 colleges certificates ranging from property management , to economics, legal research, business management, to political theory. 6 of these certificates came from prestigious learning institutions; Northwestern University, DePaul university; university of Illinois Chicago , and Northeastern university.

I have spent my time in prison trying to improve my life ; but not only my life; but Also the lives of my fellow residents.

I minister to-as well as counsel, mentor younger prisoners. I have also been a paralegal in the prison law library for over 13 years.

Helping others understand their statutory and constitutional rights. I have also worked as a teacher’s aide, helping others earn their G.E.D.

I am sharing my story with you because I need your help. I am in the process of submitting a clemency petition to the Illinois Governor, J.B. Pritzker. I am asking the Governor to reduce my 80 year prison sentence based on two grounds: (1) I was convicted as a 17 year old Juvenile ( with no criminal record) ; and (2) rehabilitation.

I have severed 25 years’ and I am now a 43 year old man who is seeking a second chance at life.