the Ideal Example

“[Zheng’s] commitment to counseling at-risk youth by teaching them alternatives to violence should not only be commended, but awarded with the acknowledgement of his ability to live a productive and positive lifestyle…

Mr. Zheng’s accomplishments serve as an example of criminal rehabilitation that should not go unnoticed…

Mr. Zheng is the ideal example of a young man who has turned his life around and is worthy of parole.”

Senate Majority Leader Don Perata,
Letter to Board of Prison Terms, Sept. 26, 2003

Exceptionally Suitable for Parole.

“Mr. Zheng is exceptionally suitable for parole. I strongly encourage the Board to find that he is suitable and give him an opportunity to continue to redeem himself through continued service to the community as a productive member of society.”

Senate President Pro Tem John Burton,
letter to Board of Prison Terms, Sept. 22, 2003

A Contributing Member of Society

“[Zheng’s] commendable behavior in prison… clearly indicates that Mr. Zheng has the potential of becoming a contributing member of society. He has acknowledged his mistakes, expressed remorse for his crime, and has served his sentence.”

Assemblywoman Loni Hancock,
Letter to Board of Prison Terms, Sept. 17, 2003

Personal Transformation and Maturation

“Mr. Zheng has made a personal transformation and maturation in the last 17 years… Upon his parole, Mr. Zheng has indicated a strong interest in helping prevent troubled young people from following a path to prison.”

Assembly Majority Leader Wilma Chan,
Assemblywoman Judy Chu, Assemblywoman Carol Liu,
Assemblyman Leland Yee, Alameda County Supervisor Alice Lai-Bitker,
Letter to Board of Prison Terms, Sept. 15, 2003