Michael Mendoza is a consultant on juvenile and criminal justice, reentry and second chances.
At 15, he was transferred to adult court and sentenced to 15 years to life in prison. While incarcerated, Mendoza turned his life around and focused on healing and education to become the person he wanted to be. Changes in state law gave Mendoza the opportunity to demonstrate that he matured into a healthy and prosocial adult.
Mendoza was released in 2014 after 17 years of incarceration. He immediately began advocating for juvenile and criminal justice and earned a B.A. degree in political science from San Francisco State University. Throughout his career, he has helped pass over two dozen pieces of legislation. He serves on various boards and committees in support of safer communities, and a more just and equitable society.
The California state legislature has recognized Mendoza for his advocacy and impact on the juvenile and criminal justice system and reentry. Mendoza is currently appointed by President Biden as a Member Practitioner for the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) to ensure we treat children like children, keep them close to home, and provide children meaningful opportunities to reach their full potential.