Michigan State Appellate Defender Office and Criminal Defense Resource Center

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SADO's Project Reentry Presents "Your Best Life Reentry Workshop Series"

Next: The Yoga and Mindfulness Workshop, September 23, 2018

SADO’s Project Reentry facilitates the Your Best Life Reentry Workshop Series aimed at assisting returning citizens with essential life skills necessary for a successful transition home. SADO has hosted workshops focused on technology, employment, finances, general support, relationships, taxes, and more. On Sunday, September 23, 2:00 - 4:00 pm, YBL presents the Yoga and Mindfulness workshop featuring certified yoga instructor Gayatri Mohan-Iyengar. The workshop includes gentle yoga, grounding breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices. No previous experience required. Lunch provided. Read More

Project Reentry Publishes Newsletter for Returning Citizens

The Drum: Articles, Stories, and Resources for the JLWOP Community

The September 2018 issue of The Drum is now available. The Drum is a publication, produced by SADO’s Project Reentry, featuring articles by and for former juvenile lifers returning to the community. The Drum also identifies a wide variety of resources for returning citizens, including financial budgeting, employment opportunities, and community tips. This month’s issue features an article on Michigan's new "ban the box" initiative applicable to state agencies, information on bridge card policy changes, job opportunities for returning citizens, a spotlight on Walter Jones, the app of the month, and a collection of stories featuring our clients in the media. Read More

SADO Attorney Mike Waldo Obtains New Trial for Darrell Siggers after 34 Years' Incarceration

Conviction Vacated Based on Faulty Ballistics Evidence

The Detroit Free Press reports that Darrell Siggers was released last Friday after 34 years in prison for a crime he says he did not commit. SADO’s Mike Waldo successfully argued that ballistics evidence used to convict Mr. Siggers was inaccurate. A new trial is scheduled for December. Mr. Siggers says, “Being in prison for 34 years for something that you didn’t do, and then to be free … it’s just an awesome moment. I feel wonderful.” Read More

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This project was funded by the Byrne JAG grant #2010-DJ-BX-0003, awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), and administered by the Michigan state Police (MSP). Points of view or opinions contained within this document do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the MSP or DOJ.