Raymond Santana is a prominent advocate for criminal justice reform and a member of the Exonerated Five, a group of individuals wrongfully convicted in the infamous Central Park jogger case. His professional journey began in the late 1980s when, at just 14 years old, he was arrested and later convicted of a crime he did not commit. Santana spent five years in prison before his conviction was overturned in 2002, following the confession of the actual perpetrator and DNA evidence that exonerated him and his co-defendants.
Following his exoneration, Santana dedicated himself to raising awareness about wrongful convictions and the systemic issues within the criminal justice system. He has collaborated closely with the Innocence Project, where he works to educate the public on the dangers of coerced confessions and the vulnerabilities of juveniles during police interrogations. His advocacy efforts have significantly contributed to discussions surrounding police reform and the need for justice system accountability.
In addition to his activism, Santana has ventured into the creative industry as a fashion designer and entrepreneur. He founded Park Madison NYC, a clothing line that reflects his passion for fashion and aims to inspire others through aspirational designs. His entrepreneurial spirit showcases his resilience and determination to redefine his narrative.
Santana’s story has been immortalized in various media, including the acclaimed Netflix series “When They See Us,” directed by Ava DuVernay. Through his speaking engagements, he continues to inspire audiences nationwide, sharing his journey of hope and resilience while advocating for meaningful change in the justice system.
