To: Maryland Parole Commissioner

We, the family, friends and love ones of Teheran Gross, write to you seeking relief for him. We would like to request an early parole hearing or a re-entry drug program.

In April of 1998, at the age of 18, Teheran committed a crime in which he is very remorseful, sorrowful, and completely ashamed. Teheran took full responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty to 1st degree assault, 2 counts of attempted robbery, and use of a handgun in the commission of a felony. Although this was Teheran’s first ever conviction and incarceration he was sentenced to a total of 45 years.

During sentencing, Judge Hennegan talked a lot about rehabilitation so he sentenced him to the “Patuxent Youth Offender Program”. This is a therapeutic program held inside of a prison in Maryland for troubled youth who are sentenced before the age of 21. Upon completion of the prison portion of the program inmates are moved to a halfway house to help them slowly re-enter society. After Teheran was evaluated and accepted into the “Patuxent Youth Offender Program”, guidelines were set for him to complete it. He was told to complete 15 years of his sentence, get promoted to the highest level of the four level program, and maintain his senior status for at least a year. Since Teheran was accepted into the program he has consistently attended his weekly group therapy. We know that Teheran was not an angel growing up but we have noticed the change in his actions and the way he talks. Through many phone calls, letters, and visit over the years we can tell that the therapy has really help change his thinking.

One year during a Family Day event at the prison we had the opportunity to talk to his therapist. He told us that Teheran was doing really well. All he had to do was stay focused and continue to stay out of trouble and he would soon be going to the halfway house. In 2012 the Patuxent program fell under the umbrella of Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS). Patuxent then changed their guidelines for the completion of the youth program and now Teheran is no longer eligible. Teheran has done everything that was asked of him. He has completed every module from Drug Treatment to Parenting (he has no children). We feel this is very unjust so that’s why we would like to ask for an early parole hearing or some kind of drug re-entry program.

Over the years Teheran has gained skills to help him upon reentering society. He’s worked in a upholstery shop, Microsoft Certifications, Bio Hazardous Waste Certifications, and more. Teheran is truly remorseful for the things he has done. He has help mentor other youth offenders coming into prison. He has also become very spiritual. He has completed ministerial classes and has become a minister in the Christian service.

We would like Teheran to been seen by the parole board with all of these facts considered!