About me
I am a survivor of childhood trauma, first encountering an institutional setting at age 6. These experiences persisted throughout my childhood and adolescence. At 18, I was sent to San Quentin and subsequently spent over 30 years in state and federal prisons. During my last imprisonment, Julie Armijo's assistance was instrumental in helping me avoid a life sentence. It was then that I began advocating for the incarcerated community. Now, I am honored to be part of the Washington State Office of Public Defense family, striving to improve outcomes for those affected by the criminal legal system. It is my privilege to facilitate this panel, where you will hear from remarkable individuals who have transitioned from Defendants to Defenders.