Preston Thorpe: From Software Engineer to Serving 11 Years in Prison
Preston Thorpe, a software engineer at a San Francisco startup, has been making headlines for his unique story. Not only is he a successful tech professional, but he is also currently serving his eleventh year in prison. While this may seem like an unlikely combination, Thorpe’s story sheds light on the issues of mass incarceration and the potential for redemption and second chances.
The Beginning of Thorpe’s Journey
Thorpe’s journey began when he was arrested for burglary at the age of 18. Despite having no prior criminal record, he was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison under California’s three strikes law. This law imposes harsh sentences for individuals who have committed three or more serious felonies, regardless of the severity of the third offense.
While in prison, Thorpe used his time to learn and grow. He obtained his GED and even took college courses through a correspondence program. But it wasn’t until he discovered his passion for coding that his life took a turn for the better.
Discovering a Passion for Coding
Thorpe’s interest in coding began when a fellow inmate showed him a magazine article about programming. Intrigued, he taught himself how to code using books and tutorials. He then started working on projects for non-profit organizations, gaining valuable skills and experience in the process.
After serving 10 years in prison, Thorpe’s case was revisited and his sentence was reduced to 12 years. He was released in 2017 and immediately began looking for work in the tech industry.
From Prison to the Tech Industry
Despite his impressive coding skills, Thorpe faced numerous challenges in finding a job due to his criminal record. However, he persevered and landed a job as a software engineer at a San Francisco startup.
Today, he continues to excel in his career and is a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform. He also mentors formerly incarcerated individuals who are interested in pursuing careers in tech.
The Power of Redemption and Second Chances
Thorpe’s story is a powerful example of the potential for redemption and second chances. Despite facing numerous obstacles, he was able to turn his life around and find success in an industry that is often inaccessible to individuals with criminal records.
His story also sheds light on the urgent need for criminal justice reform and the importance of providing opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
As Thorpe continues to thrive in his career and make a positive impact in his community, his story serves as a reminder of the power of determination and the potential for redemption, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
