Personal Statement

I am the second of four children, raised by a single mother. We immigrated to the South Bronx from Puerto Rico in 1971. My mother has always been my consummate supporter, even when I quit Aviation High School at age 16 to seek employment, marry my pregnant girlfriend, and provide for the coming child. My mother instilled integrity and virtues in my development, which have been a focal point in my positive moral development. I established myself as a dependable husband and father, working tedious hours as a packer, foreman and trucker in the Hunts Point produce market. In 1987, at age 24, I awoke from a drug-induced stupor to the nightmare of arrest for killing a man. The realization created such a burden of culpability and malevolence of self that I plead guilty to murder in exchange for a 15 years-to-life term of imprisonment, yet was sentenced to 23 years-to-life.

Incarceration History

Educational Accomplishments:

• Masters Degree in Professional Studies - New York Theological Seminary (NYTS) 2005
• Business Administration/Computer Science, Marist College, 1995
• G.E.D.: Brooklyn H.D.M. 1988

Employment:

Ihave worked as a Fire & Safety Assitant and a Pre-Release Center Peer Counselor, earning a Department of Labor Apprenticeship in Counseling, while facilitating workshops in fatherhood, domestic violence, employment and communication. I have experience in various general mechanic skills, such as automotive, welding, plumbing, mason, etc.

Volunteer Program Participation:

• Holy Name Society, President
• Project Build, Inc., Vice President
• Hispanics United for Progress, Executive Director
• Pinpoint Lifers Committee, Member
• Osborne/Family Works (Newsletter Editor)
• Youth Assistance Program (1997-2004)
• Fatherhood Initiative Workshop, Creator and Director
(with Columbia University Family Law Professor, Phillip M. Genty)
• Long-Distance Dads Program, Resident Director
• Residents Encounter Christ (Retreats), Resident Director
• Compadre Helper Program (Micro-Counseling), Facilitator
• Numerous Certificates of Completion

Release Plans

My mother, daughter and three grandchildren have been a beacon of hope and along with others, will be my greatest supporters. Non-profit organizations and N.Y.T.S. affiliates shall be a viable means of acquiring employment, providing services to families and communities. I also intend to utilize my skills, knowledge and wisdom to offer hope to those imprisoned and assist the ones being released.

In Closing ...

I have persevered in a nightmare since that fateful day I killed a man. The burden of guilt has been profound and my anguish may never diminish. I accepted responsibility and only through years of prayerful reflection have I experienced a measure of relief from the burden of guilt. I am inspired to convert my nightmare into a dream for others, offering hope to those in despair. My actions will demonstrate redemptive transformation. All I desire is the opportunity.

Thank you for logging on to NewYorkPrisoners.com and reading my profile. You can help make a difference by offering your support.

Sincerely,
Eddie Cuadrado

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