At the age of 17, Suave was arrested, tried as an adult, and found guilty. The mandatory minimum, at that time in the state of Pennsylvania, was life in prison. Before he was even old enough to vote, register for military service, or smoke, Suave was shipped away for life. While in prison, something began to shift in him. This rebellious, angry, and illiterate kid went on to learn to read, earn multiple college degrees, and even start a scholarship for the children of incarcerated individuals. Then, a miracle: nearly 15 years after his trial, a landmark court decision meant his case could be heard again—with the chance that Suave could be free. His story of survival, courage, and growth is remarkable, and the definition of aggressive.
Check out the Pulitzer Prize winning podcast that tells his story, "Suave," wherever you listen to podcasts.