Former Louisiana State Senator
Derrick Shepherd turned his life around. Now he wants to help former prisoners like himself do the same.
A Message to Ex-Offenders from Derrick Shepherd:
"The world will see us in a positive way if we let the light shine through. Let's open the doors to opportunity and all of society will benefit "
Louisiana
We lead the world in incarceration rates. Those released on parole or probation number in the tens of thousands and walk among us in the shadows of society. Some 43 per cent of individuals released from Louisiana prisons will end up back in jail within five years. Do we continue to turn our backs on this significantly vulnerable population and suffer the consequences? Or do we give them a second chance and a path to redemption.
We lead the world in incarceration rates. Those released on parole or probation number in the tens of thousands and walk among us in the shadows of society. Some 43 per cent of individuals released from Louisiana prisons will end up back in jail within five years. Do we continue to turn our backs on this significantly vulnerable population and suffer the consequences? Or do we give them a second chance and a path to redemption.
Listen Up
Derrick Shepherd addresses crime, incarceration, second chances... and politics... in a free-flowing discussion on The Founders radio show, hosted by Louisiana Weekly Political Writer Christopher Tidmore and Chaplin Hy McEnery.
Tune in for a fascinating back and forth which delves deep into crime and punishment and how our differing views can come together on the absolute necessity of second chances for ex-offenders.
Tune in for a fascinating back and forth which delves deep into crime and punishment and how our differing views can come together on the absolute necessity of second chances for ex-offenders.
Shepherd’s Mission:
Department Dedicated to Re-Entry of Ex-Cons
Louisiana Weekly Newspaper
by Christopher Tidmore
Media coverage decried former State Senator-turned-ex-con Derrick Shepherd attending a transition meeting with Mayor-elect LaToya Cantrell at a local church. Subsequent speculation arose as to whether Shepherd would return to politics in her new Administration, and the negative blowback forced heavy denials from Cantrell. Nevertheless, the controversy unexpectedly ricocheted back in an unexpected way, turning attention to Shepherd’s major issue—the difficulty that felons released from prison have re-entering the workforce.
Speaking to The Louisiana Weekly, Shepherd noted the irony, “I was there on my own volition. I didn’t say anything at the meeting…I was just there to listen.” Of course, the ex-con former politician never expected the negative reaction which he received.
“I consider the Mayor a friend, I always did,” he confessed. “During the campaign, I had helped out, just as a friend of the Mayor. I attended many events, just on my own—not as a member of the campaign—many attended by elected officials. It’s interesting that it never became an issue. It’s interesting that this became an issue.” Click here to read the rest of the article.
by Christopher Tidmore
Media coverage decried former State Senator-turned-ex-con Derrick Shepherd attending a transition meeting with Mayor-elect LaToya Cantrell at a local church. Subsequent speculation arose as to whether Shepherd would return to politics in her new Administration, and the negative blowback forced heavy denials from Cantrell. Nevertheless, the controversy unexpectedly ricocheted back in an unexpected way, turning attention to Shepherd’s major issue—the difficulty that felons released from prison have re-entering the workforce.
Speaking to The Louisiana Weekly, Shepherd noted the irony, “I was there on my own volition. I didn’t say anything at the meeting…I was just there to listen.” Of course, the ex-con former politician never expected the negative reaction which he received.
“I consider the Mayor a friend, I always did,” he confessed. “During the campaign, I had helped out, just as a friend of the Mayor. I attended many events, just on my own—not as a member of the campaign—many attended by elected officials. It’s interesting that it never became an issue. It’s interesting that this became an issue.” Click here to read the rest of the article.
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Former State Sen. Derrick Shepherd says he and other ex-offenders who have done their time should be given a second chance.
He spoke to FOX 8 News about that and the controversy over his being at a meeting where the incoming mayor of New Orleans and some state lawmakers were in attendance. |
A Community of Potential
Coming Out of the Shadows
The Louisiana Department of Corrections will release 15,000 individuals from prison in 2018. After completing their sentences, these men and women will confront barriers that prevent even the most qualified among them from finding employment. With a criminal record, it can be nearly impossible to find a job. Nationally, two-thirds of those released from prison will be re-arrested within three years. Employment can be the difference between becoming a success story and returning to crime. Let's work together to change perceptions, find solutions and encourage the potential of those who have paid their debt to society.
"I want to offer hope to the many citizens who have made a mistake that they too can receive a second chance at life."
-- Derrick Shepherd
