Group of Former Gang Leaders in California Addresses Inmates in Shelby County
Introduction
Shelby County correctional facility was visited on Monday by a group of ex-gang leaders from California, who are now serving as rehabilitative role models for the inmates. These former gang leaders were here as part of Inside Circle, a counseling program designed to aid the system-affected individuals in healing from traumas and learning peaceful resolution methods for conflicts.
Transforming Lives through Rehabilitation
Danyell Miller, formerly an active North Memphis gang member, is an example of the positive turn around that can occur through such rehabilitative programs. At just 29, Miller had found himself serving a 12-year sentence at the Shelby County Jail for offenses such as identity theft, fraud, and gun-related charges. However, Millerโs encounter with the Inside Circle while incarcerated initiated a transformative change in his perspective.
A Tale of Personal Transformation
“I learned how to stay out of the way, donโt get into anybodyโs business, be my own person and donโt participate in anything else,” said Miller. Just released earlier in March, Miller is now practicing an honest lifestyle. “Iโm out of jail, have a job, Iโm doing well. I donโt have any kids, so all my resources go towards supporting myself,” he added.
Miller and another inmate are currently celebrating the successful completion of the program and also their recent releases, which have been without any instances of re-arrests.
Preparing Inmates for a Peaceful Life Beyond Bars
Al Lewis, one of the program facilitators, emphasized that the success of these rehabilitative systems is largely reliant on the inmatesโ will to change. He said, “We hold these guys to a different account of self-accountability, and when we do that with nothing but truth and love, care, and respect, then they rehabilitate themselves. You canโt rehabilitate anybody, that has to want to come from the inside.”
The Inside Circle initiative, which initiated at 201 Poplar Avenue in 2023, has been a beacon of hope for inmates aiming to change their lives. Its success has prompted consideration to expand this program to the Shelby County Juvenile Jail.
Conclusion
The former gang members from California, who are well-versed with the tumultuous lifestyle that these inmates are trying to renounce, are set to meet with the Shelby County Jail inmates. The experiences they share, the wisdom they offer, and the example they set with their own transformation stories stand to instill lessons of self-change and peaceful co-existence in the reintegrating members of society.
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
