My name is Thai Tran I am currently serving a Life without the Possibility of Parole sentence, for a crime I committed at 19 years old. I am deeply remorseful and take full responsibility for my actions. This is something I will live with the rest of my life. I could not even begin or put into words how deeply sorry I am to both their families. I can only honor them by being a better person, a productive person, a kind human being.

Over the past 23 years I have matured and made many improvements in my life to become a better person. Since being incarcerated I have achieved 2 Associate Degrees, one in General Education and one in Social Behavioral Science. 

In addition to completing my Associate Degrees, I have been involved in self-help programs. Peer group counseling. Crucial Communication Skills. Getting Out by Going In (G.O.G.I.) . House Of Healing. Criminal Thinking Therapy. Timeliest. Defy Ventures. Paving The Way. Anger Management. Street Gang Recovery. Writing Letters To Our Struggling Youths. Victim Offender Education Group. Baylor University, Hankerer School of Business, Certificate in career readiness. And many more.

Since becoming incarcerated I have maintained family support and found love within myself. My wife stands beside me supporting me and fighting for me and encouraging me. I cannot change the world, but will help who I can. For instance, my stepson is only nine years old, but has gotten in trouble at school for saying he's a gang member. I know the path he's headed, the suffering it will cause for others and my own family. I will do everything and anything to prevent this. Use my knowledge I gained while incarcerated to guide him and mentor him so he doesn’t repeat the cycle.

 Please allow me to show that I am no longer the irresponsible, selfish, immature 19 year old I used to be but instead a 43 year old man who has gained insight, remorse, and responsibility. I have a family to come home to, employment waiting, and the support of my family and friends. If given the opportunity, I believe the Governor and the Parole Board will see how I’ve turned my life around to become the man I am today.

I am Thai  Tran, a husband and stepfather that needs to make my family whole and be active and engaged in my family's everyday life. Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story.