My name is Daniel Ascencio
I was arrested at the age of 20 and convicted of 1st degree murder and sentenced to LWOP.
I’m very much guilty of my crime and I take full responsibility for it.
I’m Daniel Ascencio, growing up I was heavily involved with gangs. I learned to have a criminal mentality, with corrupt and immature ways.
Throughout my first years of incarceration, I continued my criminal ways. But deep inside I knew I needed to change. It took many years and thankfully my belief in God was always strong.
I knew if I wanted to change, I would have to take a major step. So, I chose to drop out of the gang life, the only life I had known and lived for most of my life. I disassociated myself from prison gangs as well as my former gang. My life now means nothing to most of the people I grew up loving and respecting.
Now I’m on Sensitive Needs Yard (SNY). I’m able to focus more and in the process, I’ve found out it’s ME who was the problem! My victim, Hector Aceves did not deserve to die just because he was from another gang. I feel so awful and regret it every minute. I wish I could rewind time and take it back. The pain I caused my victim and his family is so tremendous; the pain that will never go away and I’m truly sorry for this! Words alone can’t express it.
I made a conscious decision to change my criminal ways and better myself. I’ve gotten involved in groups like Criminal Gangs Anonymous (CGA) and Turning Point. I got my GED and make an effort to help people. Most of all I ask God, Jesus Christ for forgiveness, and follow His word. I believe if anyone can change me, God can!
I pray that the family of my victim can find it within themselves to forgive me. And, I pray that my community can forgive me for my past crimes.
I’m working on my recovery to be a better person. I have changed a lot from when I first entered the system. I’ve changed a lot but I’ve got a long road ahead. I’m going to do it…no matter what!