Lorenzo Charles

Story Spotlight: Chesa's Childhood Friend

Lorenzo Charles embarked on a tumultuous journey that saw him evolve from a young Guyanese immigrant growing up in Brooklyn's Crown Heights to a tenacious advocate for justice and reclamation. His early life intertwined with that of Chesa Boudin, as they shared a unique bond nurtured by their mothers' friendship at the Bedford Hills Correction Facility. The influence of Kathy Boudin resonated deeply within Lorenzo's life. Despite a wrongful conviction leading to his deportation in 2003, Lorenzo's exile ignited a two-decade-long struggle to return to the home he cherished. Living abroad meant facing unfamiliar places, societal norms, and economic challenges vastly different from his experiences in the U.S. Lorenzo experienced feelings of disconnection, sadness, and depression, particularly in regions where poverty was prevalent.

With unwavering faith, relentless research, and the support of legal experts, he chipped away at the seemingly insurmountable odds. Overcoming each hurdle, from vacating unjust criminal convictions to petitioning immigration authorities, Lorenzo achieved the impossible. In September 2022, he triumphantly returned to Brooklyn, reuniting with loved ones and the community he held close in his heart.

He is currently studying Human Services at City Tech University and plans to attend law school, focusing on criminal and immigration law. He aspires to be an advocate for others facing unjust deportation, showcasing the power of perseverance and the fight for justice. Lorenzo's story is one of persistence, belief, and the drive to achieve his goals.