Hello, my name is John “Tony” Trujillo Jr., and I am writing this petition requesting support for my application for clemency. I have been incarcerated since the age of eighteen, a total of 29 years. I received life without the possibility of parole for felony murder. It’s a night that I can never take back. I along with two others made decisions that would change the lives of many. I cannot adequately express the remorse I feel for the pain I have caused, and I know that I deserve to be punished. I also know that people deserve second chances in life, and the ability to show redemption. I have learned that I cannot change my past, but I am in control of my present and future. Life without the possibility of parole is ultimately a death sentence. This year a new law was passed for Felony Murder. Under this law it decreases the charges from a Class 1 felony to a Class 2 felony. If I was charged under the current law, I would eventually have the opportunity for parole.  

I have an incredible support system of friends and family, that have stood by my side through thick and thin. Starting with my parents, my mother was my best friend, my rock, sadly she passed away in 2015. Living without her has been difficult, but I know she is looking down on me and she would be proud of the man I am today. She was a beautiful, caring person, someone that I have always looked up to. My father continues to stay by my side after all these years. He has been through so much and he is now 70 years old. He is no longer in the best of health, and his only desire is to see his son come home one day.  I hope to have the chance to make it up to him, by being there for him in his time of need, like he has always been for me.

When I first came to prison, I was not the ideal inmate. I was a scared kid, trying to find my way, and survive. Over the years, I have gained an understanding of life, and how fragile it is. I have taken steps to improve myself and to help others. I currently work as an OCA III (Offender Care Aid) where I assist other inmates who are chronically ill. I take great pride in the work that I do, knowing that I can make a difference to those who need it most. I have also gained certificates as a Mental Health Peer Assistant where I help other inmates who need someone to talk to, and provide support in some of their toughest moments. Caring for others has brought me purpose in life, as well as patience, and compassion.

I am determined to make my family proud and show others that change is possible. I only hope to be granted the opportunity to right my wrongs and prove that I am a changed man. I am no longer that lost boy I once was. I have goals and dreams of a future outside of prison. A future where I can continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

 I can only hold onto a hope that you may deem me worthy of another chance. My past does not dictate the person who I am today, nor the person who I want to become.