Re: Support Letter For Luis Perez

Dear Governor Baker,
I am the wife of a prisoner serving a second degree life sentence at NCCI_Gardner. However, I am writing this on behalf on of another inmate, one Luis Perez, whom I know by reputation and by having met him often in the visiting room when I visited my Husband. I mentioned my martial situation both to be honest and to make very clear that I am not biased on behalf of inmates. I am not an advocate by any means (except for my Husband only).My situation does give me a unique perspective and insight into personal everyday knowledge of individuals. These insights may not be available to you by reviewing the prison records of how may programs, certificates, d-reports and what not that a person may have. I have insight into how a person is when no one is watching, how a person treats others, how he reacts to adversity, how caring he is and of his character. I've been visiting my Husband twice weekly for the last 5 years and I've come to know and hear about and/or meet many of the inmates there. When my Husband told me that Luis Perez was applying to you for a commutation of his 1st degree life sentence, I wanted to help.
I first heard of Mr. Perez when I began visiting the man who would later become my Husband. From early on, my Husband talked about a friend of his and how much Luis has helped him during his incarceration. My Husband's time happened when he was 18 years old. He is now in his late 50's. Besides the powerful effect Luis has had on my Husband, he's a powerful effect on numerous other inmates. Luis couldn't speak English when he came to prison. He not only learned English on his own, but he is also college educated and a registered clergyman. Not one of those send-a-dollar things, but a certified registered clergyman from a reputable Bible school, who gives spiritual advice to may prisoners who ask him for help.
In Project wake Up, he has spoken to at-risk juveniles and high school and college students about life choices and what the cost can be for making the wrong ones. He's done this for over thirty years. He's worked as a law clerk where he has been able to help inmates receive treatment for HIV and now for Hepatitis C, helping them to get the medication they need. As a wife on an inmate, I know how difficult it is to get this expensive treatment in the DOC. Luis has helped to save many lives which is part of his character. He is also a poet and has written 2 books. Most of this is a matter of public record. I have met Luis personally. I have found him to be a spiritual, warm, friendly and kind gentleman. He has a great reputation among the staff and other inmates. He is respected and highly regarded by all. I cannot tell you in these few words all that he has done for my Husband and I alone and for those around him. I am truly grateful for this man and the impact he has had on my life. Writing this letter on his behalf is the very least I could do for this kind man.
Commutations, I understand are given to those inmates who have been rehabilitated and can safely be released into the community. This man has truly demonstrated that. I would have no problem with Luis Perez not only in the community, but living next door. I feel Luis does not belong in prison anymore. I hope you will take these remarks and insights into consideration when deciding on his suitability for release. Please do not keep this man in prison anymore.
Thank you,

Cathy Rosa