The Facts of Life

I am writing to recommend John Taglianetti for a research position at your University.

I have had the great pleasure to know and collaborate with John over the last several years. We have worked together on numerous projects surrounding the ＂life without parole＂ issue in Pennsylvania. Both of us have spent a great deal of time (John more than me) helping incarcerated ＂lifers＂ do three things: 1) try to navigate the commutation process in Pennsylvania 2) advocate for changes in the Pennsylvania laws as they relate to LWP 3) assist inmates who achieve commutation with re-entry into society. In 2016, he and I worked together on a documentary film, ＂The Mayor of Grater ford,＂ which highlighted the issues of death by incarceration.＂

John Taglianetti is one of the fiercest, most dedicated advocates for incarcerated senior citizens that I have ever met. He was a prime architect in the formation of the Gray Panthers of Grater ford, a group of incarcerated senior citizens with LWP sentences. He has used countless hours and his own funds to further the cause of justice for these inmates. In addition, he has studied researched, and written of the subject of the archaic sentencing practices in the state of Pennsylvania. I’ve been inspired and have learned a great deal from John commitment and dedication to the cause of improving the Corrections system.

I highly support John’s efforts to create a more just, equitable criminal justice system. His life long quest for education and knowledge makes him a natural fit in a Research Position. I recommend John without reservations.

Sincerely,

Stephen McWilliams, Ph.D., M.F.A.

Villanova University