Citizens for a Second Chance

How the Network Works

2013-03-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

Hello,
These are interesting times. People all over the world have begun to realize that our leaders are not going to save us or make our lives better:- That it is up to us. As I write this, the rulers in Egypt and Tunisia have fallen , there is fighting in Lybia, and there are thousands of protesters in Madison. No matter what the outcome in any of these struggles, it is a good time of rising awareness.

In the 11 years of FFUP’s existance, it has become clear that unless those of us who care come together,there will be no improvement in lives of prisoners or their families and the prisons will continue to be a main jobs program in Wisconsin and the rampant human rights violations will continue. It is time for a concerted effort to build a strong voice for the rights and needs of prisoners and their families.

The idea for this network is modeled after Amnesty International’s network. They advocate for international political prisoners and actually get folks released.

The idea is this:
A 4 page flier is sent to members each month which includes a one page cover letter and three letters for prisoners. The letters will already be written. Members read the letters and decide if they want to help that priosners. They will be able to read full stories and see documents online. The letters can be rewritten and shortened or just xeroxed. Then each members makes 2 copies of each letter and one of each is sent to the authority addressed and one to the prisoner. There would be three cases a month.

This network will be open to anyone, although we are starting by inviting prisoners families. Families become members by agreeing to write for other families' loved ones not just their own . They agree to consider helping each prisoner in the flier, but it is their decision to act or not. Our goal is to get 50 letters sent for each case.

Although these first three case are about parole and programming , we intend to write about any problems where a mass mailing may sway opinion. Segregation abuse, lack of health care, bogis conduct reports, can all be addressed. Plus gradually we can take on larger subjects and get to the deep down corruption of the system .

I hope you will join us in this effort. This first three cases are included next. Feel free to email or call for more information:

Peg Swan
FFUP member
swansol@mwt.net, 1-608-536-3993

Ron Schilling

2011-03-11T14:46:00.000-08:00

Steve Laundreman, Chairperson
Earned Release Review Commission
3099E. Washington Avenue
PO box 7960
Madison,WI 53707-7960

email earned.relrevcom@wisonsin.gov
Telephone 608-240-7280
fax 608-240-7299

Date:____________, 2011
RE: Reconsider Parole for Ron Schilling #32219
Dear Parole Commission:
I am writing to voice my concern as a Wisconsin tax-payer and also to express my dismay over the recent denial of parole of Ronald Schilling #32219. I understand he was convicted of killing a man in 1975 and given a life sentence for that offense. I also understand that at the time of sentencing the expectation was that he would serve 13.6 years of incarceration, and that absent extenuating circumstances like bad conduct he would be released after that amount of time. Hence, my dismay.
Additionally, this man's co-defendant was more culpable in that he planned the offense, yet he was paroled in 1992, after serving 17 years. And even more shocking to my conscience is the fact that virtually hundreds of life-sentence offenders coming into the system after Mr. Schilling have already been released. I fail to see any justification for the aberrant and unequal treatment in this case. Even under the current criteria it doesn't make good sense.
As a tax-paying citizen of Wisconsin during these economically stressed times, I am shocked to discover my badly needed tax dollars are still being used to pay for this man to be incarcerated, especially when he has more than demonstrated his utter rehabilitation in every possible measure. Moreover, I am appalled to imagine anyone would think this is morally appropriate or socially responsible to continue this man's incarceration. It is an unnecessary and costly burden. Our State is flat-broke and cannot afford such an unsustainable practice.
Mr. Schilling presently has an accepted and approved parole plan for Milwaukee; an apartment is being held open for him, two jobs are being held open for him, the social networking is in place for assistance for transportation to the parole office and to obtain his driver's license and CDL. In short, he could not be more ready to assume his rightful position in our society. We stand ready to accept him back.
For the foregoing reasons, I pray to touch your emotional register to employ the same compassion you would desire if similarly situated. And I further urge you to develop and apply a more fiscally and socially responsible policy concerning those prisoners who have demonstrated their rehabilitation and readiness for reintegration to our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration of the above. In my estimation it is desperately needed.
Sincerely,
Your name ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬-______________________________________________

c/o29631 Wild Rose Drive
Blue River, Wi 53518
It has been brought to our attention that there is concern that addresses of support writers not be made available through open records requests by prisoners. So in order to maintain confidence and safety, we are using FFUP return address for all letter writers. If you need to verify the legitimacy of the signatures. Please contact FFUP,:
FFUP
c/o Peg Swan29631; Wild Rose Drive;Blue River, WI 53518;swansol@mwt.net; 1-608-536-3993

Letter three, Carlos Abadia

2011-03-10T14:23:00.000-08:00

Parole Commissioners, PRC Committee
3099 East Washington Avenue
PO Box 7869
Madison, WI 53707-7960
RE: Request for speedy admittance in to last program requirement for Carlos Abadia #222093
Date:____________, 2011
Hello
I am writing to request reconsideration of the final ruling on Carlos Abadia’s bid for timely admittance into his last program requirement. Even though he will be transferred to the medium Facility at Fox Lake, the fact that he was denied endorsement for the ADOA program and was given a 12 month defer, means he will still have years to serve as a prisoner and will live once again in the limbo prisoners call “dead time.”
Carlos has served almost 18 years of a 40 year sentence for sexual assault . He came to prison an angry young man, a drug user ,an abused child turned abusing adult. This is an old story but with Carlos it has a happy ending. He is a different man and takes total responsiblitiy for what he did. He has gained many skills in his prison time, is engaged to be married, has strong family support and a stable living and work arrangement ready . I cannot see how more years can help this man or make the community safer. It will merely breed cyniscm and strain his ties to his loved ones.
He was sentenced under “old Law” where Judges gave sentences knowing the prisoner would be up for parole in far fewer years if they rehabilitated themselves and showed themselves able to obey rules and act responsibly. We see over and over the adage “not enough time served” used to deny prisoners programming and parole . In Carlos’ case, this is especially harmful for he has worked night and day to improve himself and has take all programming seriously .
Carlos came to prison unable to speak English and had trouble in his first attempt to take the ADOA programming. This misstep is now being used to deny him timely access to the program for a second try. Instead the fact that he has won writing contests and successfully taken a long list of programs should be appplauded. His progess has been remarkable. I conclude with a list of his program acccomplishments and a final bid for reconsideration. :
ANGER MANAGEMENT, FEBRUARY 10, 1999
S.M.A.R.T. DRUG/ALCOHOL RECOVERY PROGRAM FEBRUARY 25, 1999
ABLE MINDS, USING LITERACY TO TRANSFORM BEHAVIOR, AUGUST 24, 1999
M.A.T.C. HUMAN RELATIONS (DEANS LIST) OCTOBER 20, 2000
M.A.T.C. TECHNICAL DIPLOMA VOCATIONAL TRAINING COURSE (DEANS LIST) MAY 18, 2001
WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION H.S.E.D. FEBRUARY 5, 2002
SEX OFFENDER TREATMENT PROGRAM COMPLETION,JUNE 12, 2003
LITERACY VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA TUTORING DIPLOMA NOVEMBER 12, 2003 !
POETRY. COM EDITOR”S CHOICE AWARD WINNER, SEPTEMBER 2003
THE KEY NEWSPAPER, READER'S AS WRITER'S CONTEST, 2nd place winner, essay, APRIL 20, 2009 & 5/12/9
FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAM COMPLETION, MAY 2009
INSIDE OUT DAD NATIONAL FATHERHOOD INTITATIVE, MAY, 2009
45 HOURS PARENTING PROGRAM, MAY 6- JUNE 6, 2009
SEX OFFENDER ASSESMENT REPORT, JUNE 15, 2009. completed, continue need in community
RESTORATIVE JUSTICE COMPLETION, DECEMBER 07, 2009
CORRECTIONAL EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION WISCONSIN CONTEST ESSAY/POETRY WINNER FEBRUARY 18, 2010
1ST &3RDPLACE - WISCONSIN STOCK MARKET GAME SPRING 2010 WDOC DIVISION TEAM #WI-67-ZZ48 ZZ49APRIL 23, 2010
AMMAR ASKARI PH.D. M&I COMMUNTIY EDUCATION ADMINISTRATOR DOC PROGRAM .JUNE 10, 2010
FINANCIAL LITERACY & BUSINESS BASICS COMPLETION. JUNE 17, 2010

I cannot say this better than Carlos: “The only treatment program I have left is AOOA, which is the only program precluding me from receiving an actual and meaningful parole hearing/deferment. I will not waste anyone's time with unnecessary rhetorics. I am simply asking everyone anyone to look at what I have accomplished since the beginning of my incarceration and the kind of person I have became since then. I am a person who has been working hard to rehabilitate myself and become a productive member of society, I request that you ask parole and anyone else who will listen to please give me the chance to show that I am ready for society.

Your name ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬-______________________________________________

c/o29631 Wild Rose Drive
Blue River, Wi 53518

It has been brought to our attention that there is concern that addresses of support writers not be made available through open records requests by prisoners. So in order to maintain confidence and safety, we are using FFUP return address for all letter writers. If you need to verify the legitimacy of the signatures. Please contact, FFUP,
FFUP;c/o Peg Swan29631; Wild Rose Drive;Blue River, WI 53518;swansol@mwt.net;1-608-536-3993

Timothy Olinger

2011-03-09T14:16:00.000-08:00

Steve Laundreman, chairperson
Earned Release Review Commission
3099E. Washington Avennue
PO box 7960
Madison,Wi 53707-7960

email earned.relrevcom@wisonsin.gov
Telephone 608-240-7280
fax 608-240-7299

Date:____________, 2011

RE: Reconsider Parole for Timothy L Olinger SR #166554

Hello,

I am writing you about an important matter as I believe a grave injustice has been done here. Timothy Olinger was recommended for parole by Commissioner William Francis on December 23, 2010 and told his release day would be 1/23/11. Family, fiancé and friends were all preparing for this momentous day . Then on January 6, 2011,he received a letter from you rescinding the grant, stating that not enough time had been served. He and his family and friends were stunned by your decision and all feel very much betrayed. I ask you to reconsider your decision in the light of Timothy's incredible effort to rehabilitate himself, his family support , well thought- out future plans, and his present employment which shows he is trustworthy.

Timothy is incarcerated for the crime of Armed Robbery(PTAC). He and another person robbed an after hours party and in his words: "took property from those who came to have a good time." He received a 30 year sentence in 1995 , has served 15 years and first went before the parole board in 2002 in Oklahoma while serving out of state .
Timothy has an impressive list, too many to list here, of some 30 programs he has completed and jobs he has held while incarcerated, including an associate degree and many academic credits. He came to prison confused and angry and this growth was difficult .

"I found myself searching the pages of different religions to find the answers that I felt were eluding me, as though it were some type of elaborate scheme designed to keep me down and out. Although my spiritual understanding has flourished because of that diligence and curiosity . . . the spotlight continued to fall back on me, not to those external forces that I was so sure had sabotaged life. I realized then, that only an educated mind could find its ways back to the surface of well-being, and a comfortable sense of wholeness. Because of this ambiguous attitude, today I have an Associates Degree in Business Management Along with other academic achievements that have in some way added to the humanity that I so earnestly seek. I realize today that I am merely a student of life passing through a world of classrooms filled with different experiences, different people, and different episodes, that ultimately serve to shape and mold us. I believe the question for me is, and has always been, what do I have to offer with my life, and what is my purpose. I the meantime, I continue to open myself up to this process of being and becoming."

The final irony is that Tim has been working a night job in the community, working side by side with civilians, driving to work and paying rent at the center where he is incarcerated. If he is trustworthy enough to do this, why is he still in prison? He has far exceeded any guidelines or standards the statutes or parole commission or DOC give . As a taxpayer, as a concerned citizen , as a person who respects and admires Timothy's honest efforts, I ask you to reverse your decision and release Timothy Olinger. He is one of your success stories. You should be proud of his efforts and reward them .

Sincerely,

Your name -______________________________________________

c/o29631 Wild Rose Drive

Blue River, Wi 53518

It has been brought to our attention that there is concern that addresses of support writers not be made available through open records requests by prisoners. So in order to maintain confidence and safety, we are using FFUP return address for all letter writers. If you need to verify the legitimacy of the signatures. Please contact FFUP,:

FFUP

c/o Peg Swan29631

Wild Rose Drive

Blue River, WI 53518

swansol@mwt.net

1-608-536-3993

Documents and Story of Carlos Abadia

2011-03-08T18:50:00.000-08:00

"Dead Time" and Ideas for Change

EXCERPTS from Letter by Carlos Abadia #222093;RGCI;PO Box 925;Red Granite, Wisconsin 54970
to Investigator Cecil Tates;US DHHS Office for Civil Rights;233 N Michigan, Suite 240;Region V;Chicago, Ill 60601
and Representative Tamara Grigsby; State Capitol, Room 182 North; P.O. Box 8952; Madison, WI 53708-8952
A graphic accounting of what it feels like to be told that you have to wait until 6 months before your mandatory release date before you can do programming, that no matter how well behaved you are, you will have years of "dead time " to do. This was a lengthy letter discussing many prison problems. We here feature only those sections on parole.

Dear Representative Grigsby & Investigator Tates:
This letter is from the "nobodies" who have been told to wait. We feel like there is no alternative for us other than to reach out to you, our State Representative & Civil Rights investigator, in a positive A sincere effort to present our "bodies", as a means of laying our case before ears that will hopefully listen.
We feel strongly that our treatment here is inhumane and we are all desperate for change. We openly express this desperation for change in our lives as well as our current condition of confinement & stagnation to the social worker and we are consistently told "you've still got dead time to do" These words are psychologically traumatizing to us. Our lives are equated with death. To equate a man's life with death is the ultimate- show of hopelessness. This practice is very harmful to us as it is used to justify to us, why we are being told to be idle. You have dead time to do because you are not recommended to take part in sanctioned rehabilitative programming unless you are 6 months prior to you mandatory release (MR) to the date they projected you would be released.
Prison is filled with ways to distract ones minds from the reality of his present condition. There are hundreds to thousands decks of playing cards, domino games, different recreation games like basketball and soft ball and men spend their days submerged in these games because here, in these little games is the only place they can feel alive. So they play these games for 12 hours a day, but after awhile a man says to himself, "it is time to stop this nonsense and do something with my time. Once this decision is made he will then seek help from where he is told that it resides, with the social worker. He'll then be told, not because of a lack of self-motivation or eagerness, but because he has more than 6 months until the time he is to be released that he has to do "dead time" Death and denial are associated
Here at RGCI, learning is highly emphasized and in some cases enforced. In addition to the HSED programs offered here, the institution has a Microsoft vocational program. It also offers the IYO college program. And a B of the Arts Degree program through Milwaukee area technical college, but these programs are inaccessible for those who are over the age of 26. These programs are operated under the 6 to 24 months rule. Men who's projected release for prison exceeds this time frame are met with a shrug of the shoulders and told they are not eligible yet.
It is counter productive that our requests for program placements are denied. Our request for placement and recognize treatment needs and educational needs are continuously denied. Our complaints about the wrongs that are done to us are unjustly denied, and in the end we feel denied.
Rehabilitation is a frequently used word, but the truth is that there is no real rehabilitation built into this system. What we are experiencing is a system of oppression. It is inconceivable that men can be rehabilitated when they are denied work, school and school programs because the dates fall outside the next 6-24 months.
The made-up policy of not allowing willing men to participate in treatment or school programs and telling us to do dead time, is counter rehabilitative. It is seen by some that this is actually the design of the system as a whole. If white men are statistically given lesser sentences in the court room than minorities, than the policy of choosing inmates for treatment and programs with 6-24 months is most beneficial to those with shorter sentences. Further more, men who apply for TIS sentence adjustment near the completion of their sentences are deemed unfit because they have not taken part in any recognized DOC rehabilitation programs. The DOC of course does not explain that these programs were denied. If they did explain, the whole world would see that the DOC intends to dictate the release the date of the men despite any other legal authority.
This magic authority the DOC assumes manifests itself in other ways too. For example, men who have been deemed by the sentencing courts to be eligible for the early release program, or for the boot camp, are frequently told by the DOC that due to some dynamic of their offense they are not going to be permitted to participate. We have tried to see a copy of the law books from which the DOC works, but they are inaccessible to us. Therefore, how the DOC can override the judicial branch remains a mystery to us all.
We all want to be better men were when we came to prison. However the condition we currently live under here are truly the antithesis to this growth. If rehabilitation is to take place, then it must not only between the hearts and minds of men who are incarcerated. It must also be in the interests of those in authority. Because it is these people who can cultivate men and point them in the right direction.
So many of us Men have such wonderful talents here. There are award winning artists here, there are also great rappers, musicians, poets, authors,, educators and athletes and the list goes on and on. What is sad is that a lot of the these talents in our situation are considered be nesciences and threats to good order of the institution. These talents are often discouraged, thus removing the self-satisfaction and sense of purpose and achievement men get from seeing and hearing the creativity manifest a itself.
There is a saying that goes "the best person to design a house alarm is a burglar." And I believe wholeheartedly that the form of rehabilitative programming will come from the hearts and minds of those, who are or have been, incarcerated themselves. Incarcerated individuals see clearly the flaws and roadblocks to rehabilitation first hand. Therefore they are the best situated to effectively point out to others and give helpful and productive suggestions on how to overcome these obstacles.
The first step in this process would be to realistic expectations from everyone involved in the rehabilitation process. The staff/ inmate relationship must remain professional and discipline must be firmly set in place in order to create a safe working and living environment for everyone. It is well know that a student cannot learn if he has safety and security on his mind.
It must be acknowledged that due to the ethnocentric difference between staff & inmates, staff must be culturally literate and adept to dealing with men of diverse backgrounds. This literacy if learned & demonstrated by the staff will be taught to the men quite naturally. The staff will be respectful and in return the Men will I treat them as they are treated. The way it is now, we are respectful & the staff does as they please. This training would best be given to the staff from a group of former inmates, as they can convoy exactly what needs to be known about dealing with culturally diverse men in a prison setting.
Another idea would be to design programs for inmate's hose projected release dates exceeds 24 months & allow men to accomplish things. programming should be set in place for Men who refuse to sit in a coffin while he's still alive..
There is nothing better under confinement condition for a prior bad act than the feeling of accomplishing something positive. These programs would give the Social Workers a chance to get to know the M«n & this would give the men an a "meaningful" opportunity to be known. This will also place the Social Worker in a better position to help the men, because by knowing us, she can prescribe accurate & efficient help for us. This type of programming is critical to men who are incarcerated. Not all of Not all of us here are fortunate enough to have a strong family support network & these programs would be a way for men to see that some one does care about their lives, someone wants them to change.
Through the implementation of new programs, such as "Coming into Manhood", Men in prison can be taught proper ideas about manhood. As it is now,There is no teaching. Men who are not religiously affiliated or in a search for that type of inspiration should be provided with another association group which they can be a part of, one of men who are of the same or ethnic backgrounds It would be very healthy for men to be shown the accomplishments of great men who have come before them. From here Men will be able to draw inspiration from these examples of success or failure. Men who are culturally aware of themselves are greater assets to their cultural community, and in many communities, these Men are the leaders. It is essential to the interest of the community to have prospective leaders who are incarcerated to return to their communities rehabilitated, so that one day they can assume their roles in that community.
From here, we see that so much can be done to cultivate great men from behind these walls of madness, but there is so little faith in change. The staff have this a "walking Dead" philosophy, where they either see us as inanimate or without the attributes that are normally associated with living people, such as feelings, families and goals.Men have been crying for help, but no one seems to hear us, those screams echo here. We need you to hear us. We want to be given a chance to turn our lives around and be productive citizens and loving, caring, teaching and providing fathers. We want rehabilitation. We need this chance and we ask that you see that we get it..
There is a saying that goes "the best person to design a house alarm is a burglar." And I believe wholeheartedly that the form of rehabilitative programming will come from the hearts and minds of those, who are or have been, incarcerated themselves. Incarcerated individuals see clearly the flaws and roadblocks to rehabilitation first hand. Therefore they are the best situated to effectively point out to others and give helpful and productive suggestions on how to overcome these obstacles.

February 13, 2007
From: Carlos A. Abadia #222093
Red Granite Correctional Institution
1006 County Road EE
Post Office Box 925
Red Granite, Wisconsin 54970-0925

My first parole hearing was on January 14, 2004. During that
hearing I received a 48 deferment, which was later amended to a 36 deferment by then Parole Commissioner Lenard Wells. I was
still advised that the reason for that is because I have not served enough time yet & that I needed to complete my Alcohol or Drug Abuse/Addiction program in able to even be consider for minimum or parole.
When I went to see the Program Review Committee (PRC) here at Red Granite Correctional Institution (RGCI) I advised them that I would like to be transferred to an institution that offers me this program and maybe even more educational programs to better my-self. I was advised that there was no significant reason to do so & that I have to wait 6 months prior to my Mandatory Release date (MR) to do AODA program because of my sentence structure, which I was sentenced to 40 years & have done almost 14 years in prison out of the 40 I received.
I again saw parole on December 01, 2006, however my AODA was not endorsed & was advised to ask PRC at RGCI for it, I advised Mr. James Hart that PRC at RGCI advised me that I have to wait 6 months prior to my MR date, which I may add my MR falls on December 16, 2020.
One of the reasons for denying me parole or minimum was because 1.) Insufficient time served, and, 2.) Because until I complete my AODA residential treatment program I remain in the unsatisfactory check box, which prohibits me from moving forward to a minimum work release or a parole grant & since RGCI will not allow me to enter into AODA I will most certainly end up serving a total of 26 years in prison, the only thing this will do to me is turn me into an angry, bitter person whom will be to afraid to even step into the outside world after 26 years all because the parole board says insufficient time served and RGCI says wait 6 months prior to your MR.

from Letter of:January 1 , 2008
Parole tells me that if I will not be able to transition to minimum or community until I complete my AODA. If parole wants to deny me ADOA until 6 to 24 months to MR, why would anyone want to do ADOA then? I should be in work release making money for my release.
I wish I could turn back the clock. I know what I done was a terrible shameful act. Drugs were in my life then. Drugs destroyed me and my life and way of thinking back then. I haven't touched drugs since the day I was arrested. Everyday before I even look at myself in the mirror I tell myself I don't deserve freedom for what I done. No one told me to drink or do drugs that night. No one can possibly know or understand addiction until they've lived that life. Drugs can and will not only destroy your life but, makes you do things you thought you never would do. To this day I remain a victim of many crimes myself but I've gotten help and treatment to help with those feelings. I've been given the tools to work with so I no longer hurt anyone. I'm drug free for over 14 years now.

Documents and story of Timothy Olinger

2011-03-07T19:59:00.000-08:00

Here are documents relating to Timothy Olinger's latest parole hearing. Click on documents to read full size. Transcriptions are below the documents.
1) parole is recommended by the commissioner

DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION'S
Parole Commission
DOC-1208 (Rev.09/2008) WtCS
PAROLE COMMISSION ACTION
WISCONSIN
Wisconsin Statutes
Chapter 304 Administrative Code
Chapter AC 1
OFFENDER NAME OLINGER, TIMOTHY L.
DOC NUMBER 166554
INSTITUTION NAME Winnebago Correctional Center
AGENT NUMBER J1605
TIS No
980 No
RECOMMENDED ACTION TAKEN Defer (for 6 Months)
NEW PED 08/23/2011
MK/ES
03/09/2015
RECOMMENDED ELIGIBILITY DATE
I) ATE ACTION TAKEN
12/23/2010
HEARING TYPE
Parole Review

If you are recommended for a parole grant, the time frame within which you shall be released, as established by the chairperson of the Parole Commission, shall be reflected in the grant.
GENERAL REASONS FOR ACTION TAKEN
1. Parole Plan - approved
2. Your institutional conduct has been satisfactory,
3: Your program participation has been satisfactory.
4. Release at this time would not involve an unreasonable risk to the public.
5. You have served sufficient time for punishment.
PAROLE COMMISSION COMMENTS . AMENDED
Parole grant recommendation is amended to DEFER 6 MONTHS. Sufficient time has not been served and release at this time would depreciate the seriousness of the offense.
A. Graham
Date: 01/6/2011 — Time: 03:43:17 PM
You are being seen today for parole consideration under case 95CF1085 (Milwaukee County), Armed Robbery, Party to a Crime. Your MR date for this case is 03/09/15 and your PED date is 02/23/11. You have now served approximately 18 years of a 30-year prison sentence. This case involved you, along with other, robbing people at an after-hours party. This is your third incarceration. You were on parole at the time of this offense. Your prior record consists of two other Robbeiy convictions and a conviction for Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Your conduct while incarcerated over the past 18 years includes 9 minor and 1 major conduct report, with the major occurring several years ago. You have completed AODA treatment, CGIP programming, and a vocational course. You have worked your way down to minimum-community custody and you are currently working off-site. A plan to reside with your sister has been approved by your agent. Based on all factors of your case, including today's hearing, the Commission is going to recommend a parole grant. This is due to your treatment program completion, positive institutional conduct, and your reduced custody level. This commissioner also feels you have served a sufficient amount of time on this sentence.
**This is only a grant recommendation. Ft is subject to the review and approval of the ERRC Chairperson. As discussed at today's interview, any institution misconduct, majoiigj^mingr, could and probably will result in this grant recommendation not being approved and even rescinded if approved by the Chairperson.**
W. Francis
Date: 12/23/2010 —Time: 12:19:57 PM
Language on this form does not reflect changes pursuant to 2009 Wisconsin Act 28.

2)Parole is denied by Chairman

AT240
DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS ,'arolc Commission DOC-120S (Rev.09/2008) WfCS
PAROLE COMMISSION ACTION
WISCONSIN'
Wisconsin Statutes
Chapter 3 04
Administrative Code
Chapter PAC1
OFFENDER NAME OLINGER, TIMOTHY L.
DOC NUMBER 166554
INSTITUTION NAME Wimiebaso Correctional Center [WCC]
AGENT NUMBER
3 1605
"ITS No
980 No

RECOMMENDED ACTION TAKEN Defer I for 6 Months)
NEW PKD
08/23/2011
MR/ES
03/09/2015
RECOMMENDED ELIGIBILITY DATE
DATE ACTION TAKEN
12/23/2010
II EARING TYPE Parole Review

RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS OF SUPERVISION
REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION
MEMBER

SIGNATURE

PAROLE COMMISSION CHAIRPERSON
The recommended action is approved for the stated reasons.
, DATE APPROVED
01/06/2011 A.Graham 14480

SIGNATURE

* File Review
THERE IS NO ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL OF THIS DECISION
DISTRIBUTION: Original - Institution (SS File); Copy - Offender, Copy - Parole Commission; Copy - PRC; Copy - Agent Copy - Field Supervisor when it is Requested

WISCONSIN LEGISLATURE
I'. O. Box 7882 Madison, WT 53707-7882
Standard legislativa_Address Form
Name: _ Timothy L. 0Linger Sr, DOC #: 16655'
Current institution: W i n n e b a g o Correctional_Center
convicted of: Armed Robbery ________.___
Year Convicted: 1995 _ County Convicted in: Milwaukee Sentence Length: 3 0 . y r S . Most Recent PRC hearing: 09/02/2010 Most Recent Parole hearing: 12/23/20 1 0 Conduct report and date, last 5 years: 11/14/1 0 minor
On 12/23/2010 I had a parole hearing with Commissioner William Francis, at which time he recommended a parole grant for 1/23/2011.
On 1/6/2011 I received a decision from Parole Commissioner Alfonso Graham amending the recommendation for a grant to a 6 month defer... stating that sufficient time has not been
served, and release at this time would depreciate the seriousness of the offense.
Have you received job assistance or training? yes
Have you prepared housing upon release? yes
Have you received help for getting a drivers license upon release? Yes
Return to: Senator Lena Taylor
Committee on judiciary, Corrections, Insurance; Room 4I5 South. State Capitol P.O.Box 7882, Madison , WI 53703-7882

January 12, 2010
Mr. Alfonso Graham Parole Commi s s i on State Of Wisconsin 3099 E. Washington Ave. Post Office Box 7960 Madison, WI 53707-7960
Dear Mr. Graham,

Hello. I pray that you are well, and at peace at the reception of this most earnest missive. My name is Timothy L. Olinger Sr. #166554. I am currently incarcerated at the Winnebago Correctional Center. I am writing this letter to you Mr. Graham in regards to my parole hearing, which took place on 12/23/2010. Mr. William Francis was the attending Commissioner at that time. It was his consensus at the hearing, that I had met with all the criterias for a parole grant consideration. Which subsequently was amended to a 6 month defer on 1/6/2011 by you yourself. When Mr. Francis recommended the grant Mr. Graham, I felt like I had in some ways earned the respect and cooperation of the Parole Commission because of my achievements and hard work during this incarceration. So I have to admit that I am stunned by your decision, and very humbled. It was as though someone kicked me in the stomach, and just left me there to experience the pain. Now, unfortunately, I must do the same to my family.

Mr. Graham, I've had the good fortune of being allowed to work in the community now for about 3 months, and I've grossed thousands of dollars. I pay rent here at the center...four to five hundred dollars a month. I go out every night on 3rd shift and work side by side with civilians. I do my job Mr. Graham, and I come back to the center. Mr. Graham, when I review the criteria's for parole consideration as they are represented in accordance with Chapter 304, Wisconsin Statues, and Chapter PAC 1 of the Administrative Code; I have to think to myself, okay Timothy you've done good! According to these guidelines, you've surpassed expectation, and done all that has been ask of you, and then some. You've matured into a very conscious, and decent and decent human being, and continue to do so.

Mr. Graham Sir, I realize today that everything I've done up to this point to change my behavior, and better myself, has al¬ways been expected of me. So why should you reward me for becoming a good man, and excepting responsibility for my own actions!? Aristotle once said this Sir; that "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an action, but a habit". Mr. Graham, it has taken quiet a bit of hard work, determination, dedication, and deprogramming to distil! all of the myths, stereotypes, and all the garbage and negative energy that has permeated my life for so very long. Yes Sir, I'm proud to say emphatically, that I'm not the same person that I use to be. I'm proud of my achievement*, and the fact that I have whole-heartedly poured myself into the rehabilitative process. Victim Awareness, Restorative Justice, AODA, CGIP, and Anger Management... I became a tutor, because I believe that education elevates a mans way of thinking about himself, and the world around him. And in doing so Mr. Graham, I've been blessed to serve others by helping many other men achieve their HSED/GED. I've been studying Business for close to two years now, and I intend on going back to school once I'm released to further my education. Mr. Graham, I'm not simply pleading for my freedom for the privilege that it is. I see myself as being revitalized. An asset, instead of a liability. There are a lot of people waiting, and depending on me to step into my rightful position, and be that positive influence that is so desperately needed in our neighborhoods-and
commun i t i e s.

I understand today Mr. Graham that there is a purpose for my life, and while this web of incarceration has been a tremendous piece to my life's puzzle; it is not what defines who I am, or choose to be in my future endeavors. Today after over 16 years of incarceration Mr. Graham, I had to tell my fiance' and my family that I won't be coming home because of the political landscape, and the bureaucratic process. Needless to say they were devastated. Justice, Fairness, Equality Sir. Are these champions so far reaching for those of us who have fallen from grace? Is there a rule of compassion that fits here Mr. Graham? Or are we just manila folders and computer print outs? I realize that with the economy recovering, that jobs are scarce and people are struggling just to make ends meet. For an ex-felon Sir, as you know the situation is even more dire. Yet how can I shrink back now!? Why would you allow me to? The responsibilities that await me out there won't subside in 6 month, or even a year. Your signature on my release papers Sir, puts you in a per-carious position...because of recidivism, and because I'm expected to re-offend. Surely an African American man who's spent the large part of his life in and out of jails and prisons, can hardly be expected to overcome the odds. I don't agree Sir, and I'm asking you to give me what amounts to my last chance to do some good. To e x -
my position, and my responsibilities in a formidable society that won't hesitate to hold me accountable.

In closing Sir, I would be remiss in not mentioning the spiritual foundations on which I stand. I believe that some day I will have to stand before God and give an account of how my time was spent. With that being said Mr. Graham, I humbly digress. I thank you for your time and patience. I pray that you will reconsider your position in my case.
"I can't change the many years of yesterday Mr. Graham, but I can do something about my tomorrows". (O.K.)
Sincerely,
Timothy L. Olinger Sr.#166554
Winnebago Corr. Center
Box 219
Winnebago,WI

Timothy Olinger #166554; Red Granite Correctional Institution; PO Box 925; Red Granite. Wi 54970

I was convicted of armed robbery in May 1995. As you are aware of, I've been incarcerated for nearly fourteen years. Albeit this is my third adult incarceration, I can honestly say that a lot about me Has changed for the better. Ignorance, immaturity and some very poor decision making has culminated to imprison me. I am at fault. Yet the resurgence that I am experiencing today is due in large part to the passage of time, the gaining of se1f knowledge, and of course education. The programs you inquired about in terms of being rehabilitative in nature, are as follows: :
* Certified L.V.A. Tutor
* Here at the institution, I'm a tutor for the Reintegration Program, which provides vital information to prisoners that are on the verge of being released back into society.
* I tutor G.E.D/H.S.E.D
* I also tutor a Basic Business/Financial Literacy class
* I represent the R.Y.T.E. Program here at the institution. An acronym for (Reaching youth through Education) during the school year once a week, myself and seven other prisoners meet and talk with kids about making the correct choices in life.(some of the kids are at risk)
* I participated in Victim Awareness Programs
* The OUT REACH PROGRAM. A small version of the "Scared Straight" Program at Columbia Correctional
* Community Service Programs - This program gave me the opportunity to give a little back to the community. We worked diligently in this program to supply Hospitals, Schools, Domestic Abuse Centers, Police Depts., and needy families with hats, scarfs 5 mittens, teddy bears, picnic tables, hand made block sets, and we also built a bridge for a park in Madison(Columbia Fac.)
** Smart Program: A0DA Level One
* ADDA Level 6: (Alcohol 5 Drug Treatment)
* C.G.I.P / Anger management / NA/AA
* Applying Basic Life Principles: 24 week Program
* Basic Seminar: A study in the application of the seven Biblical principles of life: Design, Authority, Responsibility, Ownership, Suffering, Moral Purity, and Success (Oklahoma Fac.)
** Basic Money Management
* H.S.E.D
During the last 14 years, This is how I have spent the bulk of my time.

"GRIDLOCK"
March 4, 2007
Insufficient time...lack of program participation. These are just a few of the superlatives constantly echoed throughout the Wisconsin Prison System, for those of us who languish under the ambiguous cloak of the "OLD LAW"!
As a good portion of us enter into our respective 14th...15th, and 16th year of incarceration; Most of us have become pessimistic, and somewhat embittered with a system that continues to contradict itself. Have the powers that be simply lost their way!? Or have they too be¬come overwhelmed by the sheer gravity of it all? The cliche' commonly used amongst politicians today..."Pass the Buck"! As we witnessed our only relief it seems, disappear with the dubious resignation of Mr. Lenard Wells. Which left those of us under the old law, reeling in a sea of apprehension and despair. (Meanwhi1e)...we tentatively wait for Mr. Alfonso Graham to embrace his position, and confidently carry out the arduous task that lay before his office. Even though Mr. Graham hasn't said much; his silence speaks volumes. In the wake of this "Pass The Buck" mentality, we are left at the hands of unqualified, and unscrupulous individuals and their capricious whims, and their twisted justice. These people sit on committees, parole-boards, and other functions within the Dept. Of Corrections..(DOC), charged with the responsibility of moving people through the system in a fair and timely manner. Yet it is at these levels of Corrections," that prisoners experience the greatest frustration, and the wheels of so called justice, come to a screeching halt! The social workers have virtually been rendered ineffective, and their power of recommendation, fall on deaf ears. Here at R.G.C.I. (PRC), has slowly and meticulously become just a mere formality. Since the inception of Truth In Sentencing January 1, 2000, the parole board exist for one purpose only; to deal compellingly, and successfully with those prisoner doing time under the guise of the "Old Law". Yet the parole commission has failed miserably in this capacity.

Webster's Universal Dictionary, defines "GRIDLOCK" as a major traffic jam in which all movement comes to a stop because "key" intersections are blocked, (b.) A complete stoppage of normal activity.
With very few programs, and the notion of rehabilitation, just that, a notion.. What incentives are there for prisoners!? Politicians like State Sen. Scott Fitzgerald, purpose that the DOC simply send prisoners back out of state, and build more prisons. In my opinion the equivalent of putting a bandage on a gunshot wound. As it stands, no one wants to stand up and take the responsibility for this huge debacle. Its ironic that the notion of responsibility falls on the onus of the prisoner as it rightfully should. But what of those who preach these philosophies? Are they exempt? Are they held to a different standard? Or are their words simply filled with aberrations, and half truths!? Who knows? But those who know! This is not a one person job, and until those people courageously, effectively, and fair mindedly step in...the system will remain in "GRIDLOCK"!
Respectfully

Parole PORTFOLIO
Inside the Wisconsin Prison System (WPS)
January 2010

Prepared and submitted by
Timothy L Olinger SR. #166554

Introduction:
Hello. My name is Timothy L. Olinger Sr. My hope today is that, in submitting this Portfolio; that it will in some ways offer more insight about me and the strides that I have personally taken while being incarcerated in the (WPS) from March 8, 1995 until this present day. It is also my intention to provide the Parole Commission, as well as those concerned with accurate in¬formation that will hopefully show that the petitioner meets, and has attained statutory eligibility, served a sufficient amount of time for punishment through institution adjustment, program participation, institutional as well as personal re¬habilitation, and has developed an adequate parole plan.
Also, to assure the Commissioner(s) with a reasonable confidence that release at this time would not involve an undue or an unreasonable risk to the public, and would not serve to depreciate the seriousness of my crime(s). All of which being the foremost requirements for release to parole supervision back into the community, according to the PAROLE COMMISSION ADMINISTRATIVE RULES.

Table Of Contents
I. Factors and Insight.............................3-5
II. Crime and Punishment................................5
III. Responsibility and Remorse ........................ 5
IV. Change and Progress...............................5-7
(A.) Finding Myself...................................6
V. The System..........................................7-9
VI. A & E Requirements................................. 10
VII. Education...........................................lO
VIII. Work History (Incarceration)......................10
I.. Personal Achievements................................10
.. Future Goals Upon Release(Short-Term)............ 11
Long Term............................................ll
I
.I. Leisure Activities............................ 11-12
.II. Support Base. .................................. 12

I. Factors and Insight Leading to My Incarceration in Retro¬spect
As a young man from as far back as I can remember, I ex-perienced some difficulty in following rules. Whether it was in my mothers home, at school or out in society. Thus with time, came progression. Today as I look back and reflect on my child¬hood, and my youthful episodes; I've come to believe and in some-ways understand that the various forces that come together and culminate in the shaping and molding of a young and impression¬able mind, can often be very damaging.

None more powerful or confusing than the day that my father left. I was about four years old then. I make reference to this part¬icular event in my childhood, because today I review it as a very pivotal time in my childhood. In essence, he, my father, was the primary authority figure in our family at the time. Although my mother was equally diversified in the task of discipline, when it came to me her only son, she often stumbled about a bit awkwardly yet gainfully in the areas where a man's cultivation must ultimately prevail in a young boys life. My mothers influence, as profound and as necessary as it was and still is to this day; succeeded in the areas where a woman is most strongest, and most effective. In my opinion she did her best from what she knew.

I understand now as a 46 year old black man, that the guidance that a father figure provides in a young boys life, is in my opinion very critical. Today somewhat of a father myself to two young adult women, and a young adult son who also has been languishing in the (WPS) for the last five years of his life... it matters. Often times its a matter of life and death for young men who find themselves in similar situations. As I continue to grow and educate myself with such social subjects, I must acknowledge that the choices and decisions that ultimately landed me in prison time and time again, had very little to do with others, as it did with me and how I felt about myself. I could never have envisioned a life for myself saturated in de¬spair...surrounded with fences and bars, and neither did my parents. Yet I realize today, that psychologica11y...as it relates to me, the damage had already been done. There were also other very prolific events in my childhood that would also prove to be very harmful to my young mind. Some of which are very painful And to this day seem difficult to talk about. Some of those events would eventually come to alter the way I related to other. Including women and authority figures.

As a young adult, I began to experiment with different drugs and alcohol. This behavior was as much a part of my existence as living and dying is, and helped to nurture the circumstances that would eventually bring me to low points like this in my life. At some point I began to believe that with the ingestion of these substances I would somehow be able to cope with the world around me- that I had in essence created for myself. I was too young and immature then to identify with clinical terms such as: issues of abandonment, issues of trust, issues dealing with authority, issues with identity and issue surrounding chauvinism. All of which were all too real. The lack of education also proved to be a very strong factor as I continued my downward spiral.

I dropped out of school to the chagrin of my mother. I was about seventeen years old. During this period of my teenage life, I was pretty much lost to a mentality of rebellion. Which I'm confident today was brought on by my own ignorance, low self esteem, and my inability to seek or ask for help. While my classmates were graduating and moving on to the next level, I was slowly becoming mired into a psychological prison of dysfunction and apprehension. My choices began to reflect this condition.

Thus in retrospect, robbing, stealing and hurting others, as horribly wrong and dishonest as those things are ... without trying to lessen the seriousness of the crimes-that I committed, was in fact tantamount to how far I had fallen and regressed from the young man that my family had always envisioned for me. I've come to realize and understand today that in such a fallen state of being, my responsibility to my children, my family and ultimately my community...was unlikely. In hindsight and from a internal sense of liberation and compassion, I am able to construct these sincere thoughts of introspection and self scrutiny. Through much soul searching and forethought; I realize today that prison and I were on a collision course. Confinement or graveyards can only come from such an existence of rebellion and confusion.
I feel blessed and fortunate to be in a conscious state of mind
today.

II. My Crime and Punishment
I am incarcerated today for the crime of Armed Robbery(PTAC). Myself along with another person, robbed an after hours party and took property from those who came to have a good time. I received a 30 year sentence with a Mandatory Release date of 2015. Which amounts to 2/3. The date that my sentence began was March 8,1995. I received 118 days County Jail Time. I've served just a little over 15 years .

III. Responsibility and Remorse
When I think about "Responsibility "...it brings to mind in-spiring words such as: accountability, reliability, dependability and trustworthiness. Years ago, these commendable words were very foreign to me, due in part to my self-centered and immature view of the immediate world that existed around me. My conduct was very poor and unacceptable, thoughtless and irresponsible. I live with not only the knowledge that I've hurt people. . . namely the victims of my crimes, but I also live with the consequences. I also under-stand that our communities have suffered greatly because of the senseless violence.

Being a praying man at times, I often pray for better results, but I understand that I must do my part. Today I take responsibility for my life and the damage that I have caused. I believe that true change is not merely a one time event, but a constant progression towards growth, experience and improvement. Genuine change starts within and works its way out. It begins wherever we are, no matter the circumstances. While that statement is easier said than done, I believe it to be the closest thing to the truth.

IV. Changes And Progress Made Since Incarceration
"An educated mind behaves differently; is able to canvass options and solve misunderstandings without the insistence of violence.” (author unknown)

A. Finding Myself
As I think about, or attempt to surmise the subtle progresses that I have made personally throughout this period of incarceration, what immediately comes to mind are those people who have in some way supported me and poured their spirits forth that I might in some way benefit from their wisdom as well as their experiences. I read somewhere that no man is self made, thus because they cared and showed me what they knew to be compassion...each step that I have taken along this dubious path, has in some form or fashion been humbly immersed in some phase of transformation, or change. Whether it be changing old habits, associations, or defunct think¬ing patterns, I feel pretty confident about the changes that are taking place today within myself.

When I came into the (WPS) in March of 1995, for the third time, I was lacking in many areas of my life as an individual, as well as a human being. I began to ask myself some tough questions. I thought that maybe I was just indefinitely flawed and unable to live in a civilized society where people are generally good and capable of giving and receiving compassion. I honestly had no real sense of self, and no real desire to succeed at anything. I was a 31 year old boy with the age of a grown man.

I found myself searching the pages of different religions to find the answers that I felt were eluding me, as though it were some type of elaborate scheme designed to keep me down and out. Although my spiritual understanding has flourished be¬cause of that diligence and curiosity . . . the spotlight continued to fall back on me, not to those external forces that I was so sure had sabotaged life. I realized then, that only an educated mind could find its ways back to the surface of well-being, and a comfortable sense of wholeness. Because of this ambiguous attitude, today I have an Associates Degree in Business Management Along with other academic achievements that have in some way added to the humanity that I so earnestly seek. I realize today that I am merely a student of life passing through a world of classrooms filled with different experiences, different people, and different episodes, that ultimately serve to shape and mold us. I believe the question for me is, and has always been, what do I have to offer with my life, and what is my purpose. I n-Ht4. meantime, I continue to open myself up to this process of being and becoming.

V. The System
When I was sentenced to 30 years in the(WPS )..in Judge Frankes courtroom, I stood before him as an habitual offender. Very confused, and very unsure of myself, or my future. Its clear to me today that I needed help. The theory that I had become a danger to the community as well as myself, never truly resonated with me at the time. The Department Of Corrections(DOC),has been for me, a place of reflection, self examination, and endless soul searching. And yet it has also been a source of humiliation, remorse, embarrassment along with misplaced anger, and pride.
In hindsight I realize that I did need a structured environment(as much as it pains me to admit that)...to help me address the many psychological issues that permeated deep within me.

The notion of rehabilitation when I came into the system in March of 1995, seem to be very much alive. When I came through the Dodge Correctional Facility, where I was Assessed & Evaluated (A&E), it was determined that I needed Drug And Alcohol Treatment, Anger-management, I had a Vocational need, and I was required to complete CGIP 1&2. This process is common to all inmates. With my sentence structure being a such...(30 years), most of those programs would not become available to me until much-much later in the course of my incarceration. Thus I had a huge amount of time on my hands to reflect on my life and the time that weighed heavily on my mind.

It was in these times or moments of despair and meditation, that the rehabilitation process for me began to resonate. I quickly learned that such a process must start with me first. I learned that attitude meant a lot, and with a 30 year sentence hanging over my head, my attitude needed a complete over-haul. I knew that it wouldn’t be easy, but I was willing, and that was a start.

With the political landscape constantly changing, the road would prove to be even steeper. Tommy Thompson had just recently passed new legislation called "Presumptive Mandatory Release(PMR). Which effectively allowed the various release mechanism via, the Parole Commission, the Placement & Review committee(PRC)...etc , to hold inmate on or beyond their MR dates should a committee of these people decide that the inmate had not satisfied certain ambiguous criteria's for release. The infamous Tommy Thompson letter, as it has come to be known, called for the holding of inmates for as long as possible. With this legislation in place, the prisons began to swell. Considering that the cost of keeping one person confined for one year is a whopping $29,041.. . release for some inmates at that time seemed inevitable. Yet instead the system started systematic¬ally sending inmates out-of-state to be warehoused in (CCA) facilities. Which stands for Correction Corporation Of America.

The reasoning here was to effectively alleviate overcrowding, and in the course of this endeavor, save money. Whether or not the goal was achieved; these CCA facilities that I found myself in such as: Whiteville Tn, Sayre Oklahoma, Wotonga Oklahoma, and Appleton Minnesota ...were breeding grounds for gang activity, drug activity, and a host of other questionable activities. For me it was difficult to find a reason to be positive. After the initial shock of being so far away from home began to dissipate, I began to seek out the positive aspects of these places instead of dwelling on the negative. The academic courses, the religious events, the programs available, and the leisure time activities, helped to keep me grounded and focused on the goals that I had set for myself within the system. Not being able to see my family, or my children, often left me feeling estranged and out of touch with the support group that I yearned for and felt that I needed the most.

In 2003, Governor Jim Doyle appointed Mr. Lenard Wells as Chairman of the state's Parole Commission. With the appointment of Mr. Wells, the tentative pendulum of the Parole Commission, seemed to finally be swinging in a more liberal direction as it related to the current prison system, and its prior Parole Commission. Men who had for decades been denied parole under the guise of not having served enough time, or that release at the time would cause an undue risk to the public, or simply because some program that usually more times than not, only becomes available to those closest to their Mandatory Release dates, were beginning to intermittently find relief and release, as they appeared before respective parole boards.

My own personal experience with the Parole System, has been at best tentative. Where the harsh tentacles of ignorance, and confusion exist, there is no vision, or insight from which one might glean a clear understanding of that which besets him. That statement, I believe most accurately described me, and countless other inmates that found themselves oblivious as to how the system that's in place today, actually worked. Thus, the egregious notion of fairness, justice, and equality, have in there own exclusionary manner, left me feeling somewhat jaded, and overly anxious as I pursue my freedom.

If I had to pinpoint one criteria that appears to be a thorn in my side, that the Parole Board cites with staunch regularity;
that would be...Hasn't served "sufficient" time for punishment. After 15 years in the WR5 , that in a nutshell describes my plight, and all my frustrations to this day.
With that being said, I can honestly say that I personally have no idea where this current system hopes to go.

However, with the cost of housing just one of the state's 23,000 inmate's at a whopping $29,000 per year, the outlook doesn't seem to be very productive. Since Chairman Alphonso Graham took office, the percentages show a 33% reduction in parole grants. From 15% under Mr. Lenard Wells, to 10% under Mr. Graham. In conclusion, I struggle each day with the knowledge that the system doesn't work in its current capacity. Thus what chance do any of us have of being fairly treated as we seek to return to our families, and our communities!?

Sadly, with resignation of Mr. Wells in 2007, those of us still languishing under the old regime, or(01d Law)...or Old-New Law, or whatever, depending on ones own perspective; find ourselves at the mercy of a "New Law" that doesn't include us, an "Old Law" that has in many respects, out worn its welcome.(Via.the dismantling of the Parole Board to ERRC).

Under the Wisconsin Act 28, Sentencing Reform. Thus myself, and others like me, who have "NOT" served sufficient en¬ough time for punishment, and continue to pose an "UNREASONABLE" risk to the public, are in my opinion, simply pawns in a system that has simply gone awry. I guess the question here is, have we satisfied our debt to society? And should we as inmates expect to be treated fairly given our crimes and our history!?

VI. A & E Requirements
* Vocational...Custodial Program(Complete)
* AODA Level 6 Support Group Programming(Complete)
* AODA Level 1 Support Group Programming(Complete)
* CGIP 1&2... Cognitive Thinking(Complete)
VII. Education Initiatives
* H.S.E.D.
* Associates Degree in Business Management
* Certified L.V.A. Tutor
VIII. Personal Achievements (Programs)
* Restorative Justice Program
* Victim Awareness Program
i
* R.Y.T.E. Program...(Reaching Youth Through Education)
* Reach Out Program. ..( Focused on reaching youthful offenders)
* Community Service Program...(Focus on giving back to the community
* Anger Management Program
* NA/AA . .(Support based groups)
* Applying Basic Life Principles. . . (Christian based program)
* Basic Money Management...(Banking Principles)
IX. Jobs Held During Incarceration
* C.W.C...Off Grounds Project (Oakhill Corr. Inst.)
* Bathroom Custodian (Oakhill)
* H.S.E.D Tutor (Redgranite Corr. Inst.)
* Reintegration Tutor (Redgranite)
* Financial Literacy Tutor (Redgranite)
* Business Basics Tutor/Facilitator (Redgranite)
* Library Clerk (Redgranite)
* Recreation Worker (Redgranite)
* Badger State Industries (Columbia Corr. Inst.)
* Canteen Worker (Columbia)
* Community Service Project (Columbia)

Jobs Continued.
* AODA Level 6 Facilitator (Whiteville Tennessee)
* Segregation Worker (Whiteville)
* Kitchen Worker (Sayre, Oklahoma)
* H.S.E.D Tutor (Sayre)
* Dayroom Custodian (Appleton MM)
X. Future Goals Upon Release (Short-Term)
* Develop working relationship with Parole Officer
* Find work immediate1y . . .develop work history
* Seek out support based groups... attend church functions
* Continue education...MATC
* Surround myself with like minded people with positive attitudes
* Get involve with community events, programs, and seminars
* Most importantly, be patient...stay focused!
* Find suitable housing . •
* Get I.D, Birth Certificate etc.
Long-Term
* Stay drug & alcohol free
* Build a relationship with my children/grandchildren
* Work with at risk youth
* Look at possibly starting a business
* Successfully complete paro1e. . . stay out of prison
* Look at possibly owning investment properties/Landlord
* Get married
* And just strive to be a decent human being
XI. Leisure Time Activities
* Meditation/spiritual focus
*Reading/writing poetry
* Exercising/Sports
11
Leisure Activities Continued...
*Studying African American history and diverse cultures
* Studying Real Estate
* Listening to music
XII. Support Base
In conclusion, I believe that I have a very strong support base. I have a strong and determined woman in my corner(my fiance’).. . who has been my eye's and my ear's throughout this vast ordeal. I owe her my sanity. The mother of our son, she is an integral part of my smooth transition back into society. Also my immediate family members are very instrumental in my life. They have always supported me in a positive way, and have also been a life preserver along the way. They've always managed to be there for me in some of my darkest hours, and they continue to express their love and support as I make my way home.
I've also taken the initiative to become acquainted with several agencies in the communities of Milwaukee, that assist prisoners with the arduous task of reintegration . Agencies such as: Project Return; Community Corrections Employment Program(CCEP); New-Hope Project; Milwaukee Job Training Services; Milwaukee Urban league; and the list goes on. I'm confident that these community resources will prove to be invaluable as I make the transition back into society.
Sincerely,
Timothy Olinger L Sr .