Michael G. Santos

Michael Santos Teaching

Michael G. Santos is an American author, educator, and advocate for criminal justice reform. Born on January 15, 1964, Santos has made significant contributions to the understanding and improvement of the U.S. criminal justice system through his writings, speeches, and educational programs. His work focuses on the experiences of incarcerated individuals, the challenges they face during and after imprisonment, and strategies for successful reintegration into society.

Early Life and Education

Michael G. Santos was born in Seattle, Washington. He grew up in a middle-class family and was introduced to crime at a young age, which eventually led to his involvement in drug trafficking. This early exposure to criminal activities shaped his future endeavors and perspectives on the criminal justice system.

Criminal Conviction and Incarceration

In 1987, at the age of 23, Santos was arrested and later convicted for his role in a drug trafficking operation. He was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison. During his incarceration, Santos dedicated himself to self-improvement and education. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities and a Master of Arts degree in Political Science through correspondence courses.

Advocacy and Career

While in prison, Santos began writing about his experiences and the broader issues affecting the incarcerated population. His writings gained attention, leading to the publication of several books, including "Inside: Life Behind Bars in America" and "Earning Freedom: Conquering a 45-Year Prison Term." Through his books and articles, Santos provides insights into the prison system, advocating for reforms to reduce recidivism and improve the reintegration process for former inmates.

After serving 26 years, Santos was released in 2013. He has since continued his advocacy work, speaking at universities, conferences, and public events about criminal justice reform. Santos has also been involved in developing educational programs aimed at preventing crime and helping incarcerated individuals prepare for successful reentry into society.

Impact and Legacy

Michael G. Santos' work has had a significant impact on the conversation around criminal justice reform in the United States. His firsthand account of life inside the prison system, combined with his academic and practical insights, has contributed to a greater understanding of the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals. Santos' efforts have also highlighted the importance of education, rehabilitation, and support systems in reducing recidivism and aiding reintegration.

Selected Works

• Inside: Life Behind Bars in America
• Earning Freedom: Conquering a 45-Year Prison Term
• The Straight-A Guide to Success

See Also

• Criminal justice reform in the United States
• Recidivism
• Prison education programs