Overcoming extraordinary hardship and trauma while growing up, I took excellent care of my severely autistic older brother, even in difficult times. After my father left, I worked multiple jobs to support my mother while earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences. I enjoyed success as a Quality Control Manager and Senior Associate Scientist in the pharmaceutical industry. However, during a period of financial distress, I used my employer’s account to make unauthorized online purchases for personal gain. In February of 2021, I pled guilty to one count of wire fraud.

I had never even gotten a speeding ticket, so I felt overwhelmed when I received a target letter from federal law enforcement. A few weeks later, I discovered Justin Paperny’s videos on YouTube. I liked his material because he didn’t sugarcoat anything. I felt like Justin’s team would understand me—not like some lawyer who’s just going through the motions.

I worked with Brad Rouse to generate a draft personal narrative. Some of my story was painful to tell, but it had to be done. Talking to Brad reassured me and gave me peace of mind. At the time, I did not have the mindset to do this on my own. The narrative turned out very well. It said all the things I wanted to say.

In the pharmaceutical industry, I had earned an excellent reputation for meticulous compliance with regulations and procedures. Brad helped several of my former co-workers draft character reference letters to the judge. These letters showed me from multiple viewpoints as a colleague, friend, husband, and son. I was definitely happy with the letters as they let me share more about my life with the judge.

My case moved quickly for a federal case. My sentencing hearing occurred only nine months after I received my target letter. Justin helped me prepare for my pre-sentence interview, and later, I collaborated with Justin’s team on my sentencing statement to the judge. I felt well-prepared to speak to the judge, and I’m glad I did. Justin’s team took some of the stress away and put me in a better frame of mind.

The wire fraud charge to which I pled guilty carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. My lawyer initially told me to expect a sentence of 24-36 months. Thankfully, the judge showed mercy and handed down a sentence of only seven months. After the hearing, the prosecutor spoke respectfully to me and wished me well.

Personal distress never justifies violating federal law. I accepted full responsibility for my bad decisions and will serve my sentence with humility. I also used this opportunity to get mental health treatment and trauma therapy. My weekly therapy sessions have helped me achieve a level of peace that I’ve never felt before. Before my case, I wasn’t too happy talking to strangers about my problems. Now I know that I’m moving forward in the right way. I survived a federal prosecution, and everything in life will be easier after this.

Recently, I started a new career as a freelance caregiver for autistic young adults. My family experience prepared me to work with special needs individuals and their parents. One client’s family sponsored my initial training as a Registered Behavioral Technician through BrainBuilders Autism Therapy Services. I’m currently completing advanced courses to become an Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapist with specialized training in CPI (Crisis, Prevention, and Intervention).

I would definitely recommend hiring Justin’s team. They were very responsive and professional. Justin’s team didn’t judge me. They could relate to me and understand my situation. I never thought I could feel so optimistic at this point, but I do.