Jason Rodriguez

Jason, at 17, faced a daunting 37 1/2 years to life sentence for second-degree murder, enduring 19 years within the confines of Attica prison and other correctional facilities. In the cruelties of incarceration, Jason emerged as a beacon of change and resilience. While behind bars, Jason assumed the role of a law library clerk, offering critical assistance to illiterate incarcerated individuals seeking to navigate the complex legal system and appeal their convictions. His commitment extended beyond personal endeavors as he dedicated his time to mentoring at-risk youth through a volunteer community awareness program, instilling hope and guidance in those most in need, Jason’s impact further manifested in his role as a facilitator for various rehabilitation programs, including anger management, alternatives to violence, and restorative justice initiatives. Recognizing the importance of equal access to legal resources, he spearheaded the establishment of The Equal Access to Attica’s law library, ensuring that all incarcerated individuals had the tools to advocate for their rights.In a testament to his tenacity, he successfully litigated his early release in March of 2021. Now, as a Research Analyst with The Vera Institute of Justice, he channels his experiences and knowledge into conducting qualitative research on New York’s pretrial services and and consults on strategies on various policies contributing to the ongoing discourse on justice reforms. Jason’s story embodies the transformative power of resilience and redemption. His dedication to justice reform reflects not only a personal triumph but a commitment to improving the system for others, marking him as a formidable force in the pursuit of a more equitable and compassionate society.