Malik D. enrolled in the Urban Re-Entry Jobs Program at the Urban League of Louisiana while incarcerated at Plaquemines Parish Correctional Facility at the age of 29. He completed an eight-year sentence for manslaughter in which, he reports, was an accidental killing of a friend. Malik had not had an extensive history with law enforcement. However, at the age of 19, he was convicted of cocaine possession and was sentenced to two years of active probation.
Malik grew up being the son of both family parents being active duty military. He was able to experience traveling abroad with his parents the majority of his life. In addition to his experiences of being exposed to several cultures, his parents assured that he was able to enhance his knowledge, skills and abilities by enrolling him in college. Both of his parents and two siblings are college graduates; therefore, it was natural that he would continue his education at the college level. His goal was to obtain his degree in Fine Arts. Malik stated that he was not able to continue his post-secondary education due to his initial encounter with the law.
Upon his release from prison and enrollment in the program, he obtained his forklift certification and secured employment with Fast Affordable College Student Movers where he is able to utilize his credential as a certified forklift operator. Malik has been able to interact with many students and states that he has been able to mentor some of them. His goal, within the next year, is to return to college.
Malik says, “I am extremely remorseful for the crime committed, the accidental shooting and killing of my friend. I was caught up in buying and selling guns where one went off and killed my best female friend. We were not in a physical relationship, but she and her two young children meant the world to me. Someday, I would like to set up an educational fund for her children, but right now I have to focus on me to move forward. One day, I will be able to financially help my friend’s children. I really appreciate ya’ll for being non- judgmental and looking at me as if you were not afraid.”
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