I am still here. I am still writing this. And for that alone, I am beyond grateful.
Things could not have gone any better today. For starters, I walked out of that courthouse with my family by my side, instead of being processed at a Federal transfer center. That alone is a blessing.
But let me back up.
Walking into the federal courthouse this morning, I felt a familiar mix of nerves and uncertainty. I don’t think stepping into that building will ever be easy. The area around it used to be part of my everyday life – restaurants I’ve dined at, enjoying movies at the theater a block over, walks along the pier. Beautiful memories from a different time, now woven together with one of the most challenging experiences of my life.
Yet, despite everything, I felt strong.
That strength came from my family, walking beside me every step of the way. It came from each friend who showed up – one after another – hugging me, reminding me that I am not alone. It came from my legal team, whose calm presence filled me with hope.
And then, we were in court.
Judge Kelley listened, just as she had before. She gave my wife the opportunity to speak. And then, she gave me the floor.
I was relieved to have the chance to address her directly. But I was nervous. How would my words land? I stood there, fully claiming responsibility for my actions while maintaining my innocence of any criminal intent. It was the right thing to do – not just for me, but for everyone who has stood by me. And while I knew that approach doesn’t always go over well post-conviction, I believe Judge Kelley understood. She treated me with respect, compassion, and fairness – things I honestly did not expect.
And then, the moment came.
She gave me the absolute lowest sentence, fine, and post-incarceration supervision period possible. For that, I am eternally grateful.
As before, the prosecution pushed to have me immediately remanded. But once again, Judge Kelley carefully listened to both sides and made the fair decision: I would have 60 days to self-surrender.
Walking out of that courtroom with my family felt … strange. How do you celebrate a prison sentence? But this isn’t just about today. This is about moving forward, about stepping into the next chapter of my life with purpose and faith.
I thank God – not just for the outcome, but for the unshakable belief that life is not happening to me, but for me.
I don’t fully understand what all of this means yet. But I know this: every challenge, every moment of grace, every unexpected twist in this journey is shaping me into the person I am meant to become. And I have full faith that the best version of me is still ahead.
