~To the young kid who made the painful choice of ending the life of 12 year of Rodrigo Emiliano Martinez on May 9, 2025 in Compton California~
This letter comes from someone who has walked the path like yours. I know what it’s like to carry the weight of a decision that can’t be undone. I know the regret, the confusion, the shame – and I also know that deep down, you’re feeling it too.
I grew up in Compton California, in 1991 at 18 years old I made a devastating choice that ended the life of Mr Leo Petrie. I’ve been locked up for 33 years, with 15 of those years spent in Pelican Bay SHU. That kind of time gives you space to think – really think. And what I’ve learned is this: You can’t change the past, but you can change who you are going forward.
Forgiving yourself isn’t just about moving on.” It’s about owning what happened, facing it with honesty, and showing compassion to the person you were – and the person you’re becoming. It takes strength to look in the mirror and still believe you’re worthy of growth, of healing, and of redemption. You may feel alone right now, but you’re not. There are people out there who care about you, who pray for you, who believe in your potential to change. Never lose hope.
The road ahead won’t be easy, but it’s not impossible.
Find it in your heart to forgive yourself – not to forget, but to move forward with purpose. You can become something more. I believe that. And I’m praying you find the strength to believe it too.
With understanding and hope,
A man who’s serving Life without the possibility of patrol, and who’s been there.
Delfino Muniz H43407 ~ Pleasant Valley State Prison