I was born on 9-22-49, and was raised in Charleston, South Carolina, to a wonderful family of 11 brothers and sisters. I came to New York City during the summer of 1967 to work and live with my brother, but hung out with friends and got involved with crime and drugs, which led to the present crime of causing the death of another human being during a burglary of a warehouse.

Causing Mr. Genusso's death was senseless and unwarranted and could have been avoided. However, the pain and suffering inflicted upon the victim, his family and society falls completely on my shoulders. I take full responsibility for being so cruel and brutal toward another human being and remorsefully have sought via the judge in this case, to ask the family of the victim to please forgive me for the suffering I have caused them. I was sentenced to 25 years to life for this crime, and 32 years later I fully realize the debt I owe to the victim's family, my family and society.

Once I recognized and acknowledged my responsibility and made this known to the judge, I began a process of introspection, questioning my values and the life choices I had made, and the purpose of my life. This discovery led me back to my youth when my grandmother told me God had a plan for my life. Recognizing my moral bankruptcy, I sought out direct for spiritual growth and personal transformation.

Commendations Received

In 2003, I received a letter of commendation from Supt. David Miller, for many years of leadership and educational achievements, which was sent to the parole commissioner and read into the minutes during my 2003 parole hearing.

Education

In 1973, while awaiting trial, I was one of the three men to pass the first ever given GED exam at the TOMBS, 1978 Associates of Arts Degree, 1980 Bachelors Degree, and 1983 a Masters in Professional Studies Degree from New York Theological Seminary (NYTS). In 1985 I received a BS in Biblical Ed and in 1996 I received certification in Computer Programming. Presently, I am a data entry trainer for DOCS Corcraft Optical Project at Wallkill, and a Chaplain's Aide (over 20 years of pastoral prison ministry), and have been employed as substance abuse and anger regression counselor, teacher's aide/trainer, food preparation chef, and small engine repair.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

I have volunteered for many years as a teacher/preacher of the gospel, certified child care worker, youth intervention aide, Anger Regression Training (ART), Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) and ASAT workshop leader, Network facilitator, gospel singer.

Release Plans

Upon release, I will work with the Exodus Youth Initiative and the Albany Seed Project, and will introduce the EYI in the Westchester and Albany area where I will be living, and will be active in substance abuse and AVP programs in White Plains, New York. My family and NYTS Sing Sing Alumni Association has promised moral, material and financial support.

In Closing ....

My work and ministry has always been the focus of my commitment of reparation to society in my victim's memory, a debt that I could never fully pay, by helping others. It is my mission because I am sorry for causing the death of Mr. Genusso and the suffering I caused his family and my family. The Jaycee's creed states that, 'service to humanity is the best service in life,' and all I am asking is another chance to make a positive impact in my community and in society.

God bless you, and thanks for taking your time to view my story and joining me in my quest for parole release.

Albert Gadsden

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